Semicolon/Colon Rules

What is the primary function of a colon?

• To separate two independent clauses.

• To introduce a list, explanation, or quotation.

• To indicate a pause in a sentence.

• To connect two related sentences.

Can a semicolon be used before a conjunctive adverb?

• Yes, a semicolon is used before a conjunctive adverb when it connects two independent clauses.

• No, a semicolon cannot be used before a conjunctive adverb.

• A semicolon can only be used before a coordinating conjunction.

• A semicolon is used only in lists, not before conjunctive adverbs.

What punctuation mark is used to separate items in a complex list?

• Comma

• Colon

• Semicolon

• Period

When should a comma be used instead of a semicolon?

• When connecting independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

• When separating items in a list.

• When introducing a quote.

• When connecting two independent clauses without a conjunction.

What punctuation mark is used between independent clauses (related in meaning) with a conjunction in between?

• Semicolon

• Comma

• Colon

• Period

What is an example of a transitional expression?

• However

• Quickly

• Beautifully

• Suddenly

What punctuation mark is used to introduce a quote?

• Comma

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Period

Is it correct to use a colon after 'the following'?

• Yes, it is correct to use a colon after 'the following'.

• No, a colon should not be used after 'the following'.

• A semicolon is preferred after 'the following'.

• It depends on the context of the sentence.

When can a colon NOT be used before a list?

• After a verb

• Before a conjunction

• At the end of a sentence

• After an introductory phrase

What is the primary function of a semicolon?

• To connect closely related independent clauses.

• To separate items in a list.

• To indicate a pause in a sentence.

• To introduce a quotation.