COLONS, SEMICOLONS, DASHES

Front

What is a colon used for?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What is a semicolon used for?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is a dash used for?

Back

A dash is used to create emphasis, indicate a break in thought, or set off additional information.

Front

How do you punctuate a list after an introductory statement?

Back

Use a colon before the list.

Front

What punctuation should be used before a quote?

Back

Use a colon before a quote if it follows an independent clause.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a period?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

What punctuation separates items in a complex list?

Back

Use semicolons to separate items in a complex list.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with an interruption?

Back

Use dashes to set off the interruption.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces lists or explanations; a semicolon connects related independent clauses.

Front

Can a dash replace parentheses?

Back

Yes, a dash can be used in place of parentheses to add emphasis.