Semicolons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related ideas or independent clauses.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related.

Front

Where does the semicolon go in this sentence? She didn’t see the other car coming now her car has a huge dent.

Back

The semicolon goes after 'coming'.

Front

Where does the semicolon go in this sentence? Joe likes cake Katie likes pie.

Back

The semicolon goes after 'cake'.

Front

What does a semicolon connect?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses that are closely related ideas.

Front

When do you use a semicolon between items in a list?

Back

Only if any of the items in the list contain commas.

Front

Can a semicolon be used in a list?

Back

Yes, to separate items in a list when those items contain commas.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon connects independent clauses; a comma separates items or clauses.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon used correctly.

Back

I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence.