semicolon practice

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 instead of a comma?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect independent clauses that are closely related in thought, while a comma is used to separate items in a list or to connect clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctive adverbs?

Back

Yes, a semicolon is often used before conjunctive adverbs (e.g., however, therefore) when they connect two independent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence; it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a conjunctive adverb?

Back

A conjunctive adverb is a word that connects two independent clauses and shows the relationship between them (e.g., however, therefore, moreover).

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a conjunctive adverb?

Back

Use a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it when connecting two independent clauses.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'She was not prepared for an overnight stay, that is; she had not brought a change of clothes.'

Back

No, the semicolon is incorrectly placed; it should be a comma.

Front

Where should a semicolon be placed in the sentence: 'You asked for forgiveness he gave it to you.'?

Back

After 'forgiveness' to separate the two independent clauses.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon in a complex list?

Back

To separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas, making the list clearer.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects related independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list, explanation, or quote.