Semicolons, Colons, Apostrophes, Dashes, and Hyphens

Front

What is a semicolon used for?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

Provide an example of a correct semicolon usage.

Back

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

Front

What is a colon used for?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

Provide an example of a correct colon usage.

Back

Example: You will need the following ingredients: flour, sugar, and eggs.

Front

What is an apostrophe used for?

Back

An apostrophe is used to indicate possession or to form contractions.

Front

Provide an example of a correct apostrophe usage for possession.

Back

Example: The dog's leash is red.

Front

What is the difference between 'it's' and 'its'?

Back

'It's' is a contraction for 'it is' or 'it has', while 'its' is a possessive pronoun.

Front

Provide an example of 'it's' used correctly.

Back

Example: It's going to rain today.

Front

Provide an example of 'its' used correctly.

Back

Example: The cat licked its paws.

Front

What is a dash used for?

Back

A dash is used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.