Connecting Clauses with Colons and Semicolons

Front

What is a colon used for in a sentence?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, an explanation, or to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains or illustrates the first.

Front

What is a semicolon used for in a sentence?

Back

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

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a colon.

Back

Example: She had one goal: to win the championship.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a semicolon.

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces or emphasizes information, while a semicolon connects related independent clauses.

Front

When should you not use a colon?

Back

Do not use a colon after a verb or a preposition.

Front

When should you not use a semicolon?

Back

Do not use a semicolon to connect a dependent clause to an independent clause.

Front

What punctuation mark would you use in this sentence: 'I have a meeting at 10 AM ___ I need to prepare my notes.'

Back

Semicolon (;) because both parts are independent clauses.

Front

What punctuation mark would you use in this sentence: 'There are three things I love: pizza, ice cream, and chocolate.'

Back

Colon (:) because it introduces a list.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I enjoy reading; however, I don't have much time.'

Back

Yes, it is correct. The semicolon connects two independent clauses.