Semicolon and Colon Practice Flashcard

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should a semicolon be used between independent clauses?

Back

A semicolon should be used between independent clauses that are closely related in meaning and not joined by a conjunction.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to separate two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first.

Front

What punctuation mark is used before a conjunctive adverb?

Back

A semicolon is used before a conjunctive adverb when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What punctuation mark is used between independent clauses with a conjunction?

Back

A comma is used between independent clauses that are connected by a conjunction (e.g., and, but, or).

Front

What is the function of a comma in a sentence?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to set off clauses.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with 'however' between two independent clauses?

Back

You use a semicolon before 'however' and a comma after it (e.g., 'I like apples; however, I do not like oranges.').

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects related independent clauses, while a colon introduces lists or explanations.

Front

Can a semicolon be used in a list?

Back

Yes, a semicolon can be used in a list if the items in the list contain commas, to avoid confusion.