Colons and Semicolons

Does this sentence correctly use colons?

My favorite colors are: blue, green, and purple.

• Yes

• No

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentence use a colon correctly?

I know why you're upset: you were expecting to get a promotion, but it was given to someone else.

• N0

• Yes

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentnece use a colon correctly?

The famous line from the movie Jerry Maguire comes to mind: "Show me the money!"

• Yes

• No

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentence use the colon correctly?

I'm going to the store to buy: milk, bread, and eggs.

• Yes

• No

Answer explanation

Here, a colon is not needed because there is no complete sentence before the list.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentence use the colon correctly?

The reasons for his success are: he worked hard, was determined, and never gave up.

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Here, a colon is not needed because the sentence does not have an independent clause before the list.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentence us the colon correctly?

He had three options for dinner: spaghetti and meatballs, chicken alfredo, or lasagna, but he chose to go out instead.

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Here, a comma should be used before "but" instead of a colon because the second part of the sentence is not a list.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Does this sentence use the semicolon correctly?

Sarah wants to go to the beach; however, she has too much work to do.

• Yes

• No

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Does this sentence use a semicolon correctly?

I need to buy a few things at the grocery store; milk, eggs, bread, and cheese are on my list.

• No

• Yes

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Does this question use the semicolon correctly?

The company has offices in New York, NY; Los Angeles, CA; and Miami, FL; each location serves a different region.

• Yes

• No

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Is this semicolon used correctly?

The new gym opened last month; it has state-of-the-art equipment.

• No

• Yes

Answer explanation

Here, a semicolon is not necessary because the second clause is dependent on the first clause.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A