Quiz: Colons, Semicolons, and Dashes

To indicate a pause longer than a comma

To end a sentence

To introduce a list, a quotation, or a second clause that clarifies the first

To separate two unrelated clauses

Semicolon

Comma

Dash

Colon

To end a sentence

To separate a comment from the rest of a sentence

To link two independent clauses

To introduce a list

Dash

Semicolon

Comma

Colon

To indicate a pause

To introduce the list

To separate items in a list that already has commas

To end the list

I need to buy: apples, oranges, and bananas.

She said: 'Hello!'

The weather is nice: wish you were here.

He was late: because he missed the bus.

He is tall; and handsome.

I have a meeting tomorrow; at 10 AM.

She loves to read; her favorite book is '1984'.

We went to the park; and then we had lunch.

He said - 'I will be late.'

She is my friend - and my mentor.

The match was canceled - due to rain.

I need to buy groceries - milk, eggs, and bread.

To separate two unrelated ideas

To indicate a pause

To introduce a list

To clarify the reason for the match being abandoned

We had to stop playing; I went to Matt's house.

She is a great singer; and a wonderful dancer.

I bought apples; oranges; and bananas.

He likes coffee; but not tea.