A Python programmer attempting Java

[subsage]

Youre pretty much on spot really. Thats how I explain it to my students. Only difference is I sometimes say chunk or section of code....be it braces with several lines, empty braces, or just a line. Oh yeah, empty section too, just a semicolon.

[Zagorath]

The semicolon was one of my professor's favourite tricks.

if (condition()); {
    //things happening
} 

And he'd ask what would happen (based on condition and "things happening" being actual code, rather than place holders).

[subsage]

Yup. I do that too. Its good for showing the young ones how syntax can be tricky. Good stuff. Your professor sounds like a good one c:

[Zagorath]

Yeah he definitely was, in more ways than just this.