[2025] Colon/ Semi-Colon

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

What is a semi-colon?

Back

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

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

When should a semi-colon be used?

Back

A semi-colon should be used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I have three pets: a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.'

Back

Yes, this sentence is correct because it uses a colon to introduce a list.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I enjoy reading; I also like writing.'

Back

Yes, this sentence is correct because it uses a semi-colon to connect two related independent clauses.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semi-colon?

Back

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

Front

Correct or Incorrect? 'He wanted one thing in his life: love.'

Back

Correct.

Front

After which word should a semi-colon be inserted? 'I enjoy vacationing in the mountains the rest of my family enjoys it as well.'

Back

After 'mountains'.

Front

Correct or Incorrect? 'The school day had ended; but I still had to go to practice.'

Back

Incorrect; a semi-colon should not be used before 'but'.