Semicolons and Colons- DHS

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 link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to separate two clauses when the second clause explains or illustrates the first.

Front

Correctly punctuate: 'I have three pets__ a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.'

Back

I have three pets: a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.

Front

Identify the error: 'I like apples; and oranges.'

Back

The semicolon is incorrect; it should be a comma: 'I like apples, and oranges.'

Front

What is the purpose of using a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

The purpose of using a semicolon is to create a stronger connection between two related independent clauses than a period would provide.

Front

Correctly punctuate: 'She loves reading__ she has a large collection of books.'

Back

She loves reading; she has a large collection of books.

Front

Identify the error: 'He was late to the meeting: he missed the bus.'

Back

The colon is incorrect; it should be a semicolon: 'He was late to the meeting; he missed the bus.'

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects related independent clauses, while a colon introduces lists, quotes, or explanations.