Semicolon

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related ideas or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon should be used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon connecting two independent clauses.

Back

Example: "I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight."

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon connects independent clauses, while a comma is used to separate items in a list or to join clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctions?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before conjunctions like 'and' or 'but' when connecting independent clauses.

Front

How can semicolons be used in complex lists?

Back

Semicolons can be used to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon used in a complex list.

Back

Example: "On our trip, we visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany."

Front

What is a common mistake when using semicolons?

Back

A common mistake is using a semicolon to separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

Front

What punctuation mark is often confused with the semicolon?

Back

The colon (:) is often confused with the semicolon, but they serve different purposes.

Front

What is the role of a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

The role of a semicolon is to create a pause that is stronger than a comma but weaker than a period.