Semicolons

A semicolon looks like (Look closely!):

• ;

• :

• ,

• ~

(Select all that apply) A semicolon can be used:

• Between parts of a compound sentence not joined by a conjunction (My sister is a prize figure skater; she will compete in Tokyo next month.)

• Between parts of a compound sentence joined by a conjunction (My sister is a prize figure skater; and she will compete in Tokyo next month.)

• Between parts of a sentence joined by certain transitional words and phrases in a compound sentence (The movie director wanted to start filming; however, the weather prevented her from doing so.)

• Between items in a series if they contain commas (He presented his book proposal to publishers in San Francisco, California; Helena, Montana; Detroit, Michigan; and Atlanta, Georgia.)

Where does the semicolon go: I have a big test tomorrow I can't go out tonight.

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

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

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

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

Where does the semicolon go: Dad is going bald his hair is getting thinner and thinner.

• Dad is going bald; his hair is getting thinner and thinner.

• Dad is going bald his hair is getting; thinner and thinner.

• Dad is going bald his hair is getting thinner; and thinner.

• Dad is going bald his hair; is getting thinner and thinner.

Where does the semicolon go: You need new brakes otherwise, you may not be able to stop in time.

• You need new brakes otherwise; you may not be able to stop in time.

• You need new brakes otherwise you may not be able to stop; in time.

• You need new brakes; otherwise, you may not be able to stop in time.

• You need; new brakes otherwise you may not be able to stop in time.

^{Is the semicolon in the correct spot?}

I had a huge meal; however, I am already hungry again.

• Yes

• No

Does a semicolon go before or after the conjunctive adverb/transitional word or phrase? Example: I like sushi; however, it is expensive (Before) OR I like sushi, however; it is expensive (After)

• Before

• After

What does a semicolon look like?

• A dot with another dot under it

• A dot with a comma under it

• A little star

• A comma with a dot under it

Is this a semicolon?

• Yes

• No

Is this a semicolon?

• Yes

• No