Commas and Semicolons

Front

What is the primary function of a comma in a sentence?

Back

To indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should a semicolon be used instead of a comma?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma to separate items in a list.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes.

Front

What is the rule for using commas before conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects 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, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

Provide an example of a correctly punctuated sentence using a semicolon.

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma indicates a pause or separates items, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or to separate two independent clauses without a conjunction.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses a comma.

Back

I went to the store, and bought milk.