Semicolon Quick Check (100 points)

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 instead of a comma?

Back

A semicolon should be used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, whereas a comma is used to separate items in a list or to connect clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Provide an example of a correct semicolon usage.

Back

Example: "I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight."

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects related independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list, explanation, or quotation.

Front

How do you use a semicolon in a complex list?

Back

Use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas. Example: "We visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany."

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence because it has a subject and a verb.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

When is it appropriate to use a semicolon before a conjunction?

Back

A semicolon is used before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when connecting two independent clauses that are closely related.

Front

What punctuation can be used to connect two independent clauses?

Back

A semicolon or a period can be used to connect two independent clauses.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a conjunction or a semicolon.