Semicolons and colons - Tues May 23

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon should be used to join two complete sentences that are closely related, or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

Provide an example of a correct semicolon usage.

Back

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

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

A colon should be used after a complete sentence to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

Provide an example of a correct colon usage to introduce a list.

Back

"You need to buy the following items: bread, milk, and eggs."

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list or explanation following a complete sentence.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctions?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before conjunctions like 'and', 'but', or 'or'.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a complete sentence?

Back

A complete sentence expresses a complete thought and includes at least a subject and a verb.