Comma or Semicolon

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A punctuation mark (,) used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, especially when they are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a semicolon correctly.

Back

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

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma correctly.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

To separate independent clauses when they are joined by coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

When should you use a comma before 'and'?

Back

Use a comma before 'and' when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence and depends on an independent clause to provide meaning.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that requires a semicolon.

Back

The sun is shining brightly; the weather is perfect for a picnic.