Semicolon vs Colon! Learn how to use a semicolon (;) and when to use a colon (:) in English with examples, punctuation rules and ESL worksheets. Colons and semicolons were initially used to express pauses longer than a comma and shorter than a period. Semicolon (;)What is a Semicolon?What is the symbol (;) called in English? It is called a semicolon which consists of a dot above a comma ( ; ). A semicolon is mainly used to separate two independent clauses while still demonstrating that a close relationship exists between them. The semicolon does a better job of showing the connection between two statements than a full stop would. When to Use a Semicolon with Examples?1. We use a semicolon between items in a list or series when the items themselves contain commas. Examples:
2. We use a semicolon to join two independent clauses that are not connected with a coordinate conjunction. A semicolon is used to separate two independent clauses while still demonstrating that a close relationship exists between them. The semicolon does a better job of showing the connection between two statements than a full stop would. Examples:
Colon (:)What is a Colon?What is the symbol (:) called in English? It is called a colon which is a punctuation mark consisting of two dots one over the other ( : ). A colon is a fairly common punctuation mark with a varied number of uses. It can be used to introduce a quotation, an example, a series, or even an explanation. Secondly, it can be used to separate two independent clauses. Finally, a colon can be used to show emphasis. When to Use a Colon with Examples1. We use colons to introduce lists, series, quotations and explanations. A colon is used to announce, introduce a list, a quotation and before a final clause that explains something in the sentence. Examples of colons with lists, series:
Examples of colons with quotations:
2. We use colons to separate independent clauses. Examples:
3. We use colons to show emphasis. Examples:
4. We use colons to separate units of time. Examples:
Semicolon vs Colon | ImageLearn the differences between a colon and a semicolon in English with this useful table. |
|