Understanding Semicolons

What is the primary function of a semicolon in a sentence?

• To end a sentence

• To separate items in a simple list

• To link two independent clauses

• To indicate a question

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a semicolon?

• I like coffee. I drink it every morning.

• I like coffee: I drink it every morning.

• I like coffee; I drink it every morning.

• I like coffee, I drink it every morning.

When should a semicolon be used before an adverb like 'however'?

• When it starts a new paragraph

• When it links two independent clauses

• When it is part of a list

• When it ends a sentence

How does Herman Melville use semicolons in 'Moby Dick'?

• To shorten the length of sentences

• To create a sense of urgency

• To separate unrelated ideas

• To enhance the flow and connection of ideas

What is a 'supercomma'?

• A comma used at the end of a sentence

• A semicolon used to separate complex list items

• A comma used to link two independent clauses

• A semicolon used to end a paragraph