ACT English Academy - Semicolons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is 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

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

Front

Correct usage of semicolon with conjunctive adverbs?

Back

Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb (e.g., however, therefore) when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

Example of semicolon connecting independent clauses?

Back

I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon connects independent clauses without a conjunction, while a comma is used to separate elements within a sentence or to connect clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Can a semicolon be used in a list?

Back

Yes, use a semicolon to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

Correct usage of semicolon in a complex list?

Back

On our trip, we visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany.

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 to punctuate with a semicolon and conjunctive adverb?

Back

Place a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it: "I was tired; however, I finished my homework."

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.