Colons are punctuation marks used to signal when what comes next is directly related to the previous sentence. They are used after complete sentences . It is especially important to remember that a colon is not used after a sentence fragment.
What effect do Colons have?
Colons often introduce an explanation. The phrase that comes after the colon usually explains or expands on what came before it . It is also used before a list, quotation, answer or to provide contrast.
Why are colons important?
A colon is used to give emphasis, present dialogue, introduce lists or text, and clarify composition titles . Emphasis—Capitalize the first word after the colon only if it is a proper noun or the start of a complete sentence. ... The words on either side of the colon should be able to stand on their own.
Where are colons needed?
- To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation. ...
- To join sentences.
When should you not use a colon?
Do not use a colon in a complete sentence after phrases such as “such as, ” “including,” and “for example .” Because phrases like these already indicate to the reader that a list of examples will follow, there is no need to introduce them with a colon, which would merely be redundant.
What is a colon example?
A colon can be used to introduce a list. ... For example, “Here’s a list of groceries I need: a loaf of bread, a quart of milk, and a stick of butter .” The words preceding the colon stand as a complete, grammatically correct sentence. The list offers further explanation.
What is the proper way to use a colon?
between a grammatically complete introductory clause (one that could stand as a sentence) and a final phrase or clause that illustrates, extends, or amplifies the preceding thought. If the clause following the colon is a complete sentence, it begins with a capital letter.
What do you use colons and semicolons for?
Semicolons should introduce evidence or a reason for the preceding statement ; for example, this sentence appropriately uses a semicolon. A colon, on the other hand, should be used for a stronger, more direct relationship. It should provide emphasis, an example, or an explanation.
What are the rules for semicolons?
- A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. ...
- Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.
What is a colon body part?
Listen to pronunciation. (KOH-lun) The longest part of the large intestine (a tube-like organ connected to the small intestine at one end and the anus at the other). The colon removes water and some nutrients and electrolytes from partially digested food.
Can you use a colon after one word?
The colon can also emphasize a single word: “ Just one word of advice for you , Benji: plastics.” Sometimes, writers will use a colon where they don’t need to.
When should I use a colon or semicolon?
Colons introduce or define something. The primary use of semicolons is to join two main clauses . The difference between semicolons and colons is that colons can combine two independent clauses, but their primary use is to join independent clauses with a list or a noun.
What are some examples of semicolons?
Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not. The cat slept through the storm ; the dog cowered under the bed. Semicolons are also used in a sentence when something stronger than a comma is needed.
What can I use instead of a colon?
(3) The special conditions requiring a colon are absent. Here is a famous example: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. A semicolon can always, in principle, be replaced either by a full stop (yielding two separate sentences) or by the word and (possibly preceded by a joining comma).
What can come after a colon?
A space or return is placed directly after a colon . Using colons in a sentence can be tricky. Without knowing how to use colons, a writer can end up just putting colons everywhere, nowhere at all or interchanging the colon with a semicolon or comma.
Can you end a paragraph with a colon?
The colon can be used to emphasize a phrase or single word at the end of a sentence.
