Colons and Semicolons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when those items contain commas.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

Use a colon after a complete sentence to introduce a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces lists or explanations, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses or separates complex list items.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon used correctly.

Back

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

Front

Provide an example of a colon used correctly.

Back

There are three things I love: pizza, ice cream, and chocolate.

Front

What is a complex list?

Back

A list that contains items which may include commas, requiring the use of semicolons to separate them for clarity.

Front

How do you punctuate a list with items that contain commas?

Back

Use semicolons to separate the items in the list.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.