Punctuation - Colon Vs Semi-colon

When should you use a semicolon?

• To link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

• To separate items in a list that already contains commas.

• To introduce a quotation or a list.

• To connect two sentences that are not related.

Can a colon be used in a sentence without an independent clause before it?

• Yes, a colon can be used without an independent clause.

• No, a colon must follow an independent clause.

• A colon can only be used at the beginning of a sentence.

• A colon can be used in lists without an independent clause.

What is an example of incorrect colon usage?

• I need the following: apples, oranges, and bananas.

• I have three fruits: apples, oranges, and bananas.

• Please bring: apples, oranges, and bananas.

• The ingredients are: apples, oranges, and bananas.

Example of a sentence using a semicolon.

• I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.

• I wanted to go for a walk, it was raining outside.

• I wanted to go for a walk. It was raining outside.

• I wanted to go for a walk; however, it was raining outside.

How do you punctuate this sentence correctly? 'I have a dream ___ that one day this nation will rise up.'

• I have a dream; that one day this nation will rise up.

• I have a dream, that one day this nation will rise up.

• I have a dream: that one day this nation will rise up.

• I have a dream - that one day this nation will rise up.

Can a semicolon be used to separate items in a list?

• Yes, use a semicolon to separate complex items in a list.

• No, semicolons should only be used in compound sentences.

• Yes, semicolons can replace commas in any list.

• Only if the items are single words.

What punctuation mark is used before a list in a sentence?

• Comma (,)

• Semicolon (;)

• Colon (:)

• Period (.)

What is a colon?

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

• A type of grammatical error in writing.

• A symbol used to indicate a pause in speech.

• A mark used to separate two independent clauses.

Example of a sentence using a colon.

• I have three favorite fruits: apples, bananas, and cherries.

• I enjoy hiking, swimming, and biking.

• The weather is sunny, warm, and pleasant.

• She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Is it correct to use a colon before a quote?

• Yes, a colon can be used before a quote that follows an independent clause.

• No, a colon should never be used before a quote.

• Only if the quote is a question.

• Only in formal writing.