Three Tips for Using Colons

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Not to be confused with a semi colon, a colon has three main uses:

  1. Use a colon between two main clauses when the second clause explains or clarifies the first. A clause is a group of words containing a verb that can either stand alone as a complete sentence or make up part of a more complex sentence. You can learn more about clauses here.

    Here are some examples of colons used in this way:
     
    • She soon discovered the secret to spelling success: practise as often as possible.
    • The journey won’t be easy: the buses are infrequent and there are often railway engineering works on the weekends.
    • She had one motto in life: never give up.
       
  2. Use a colon to introduce a list. You can learn more about the correct punctuation for formatting lists in writing here.

    Here are some examples of colons used before a list:
     
    • Please make sure all students pack the following: toothbrush, pyjamas, change of clothes, pocket money, waterproof jacket.
    • All applicants require qualifications in the following subjects: Maths, English, Science, IT, and French.
       
  3. Use a colon before a quotation (and sometimes also before direct speech). Read more about how to punctuate direct speech here.

    Here are some sentences that show colons introducing quotes and speech:
    • The sign read: ‘Please keep off the grass!’
    • He knew what she was going to say before she said it: ‘I love you.’
    • In Romeo and Juliet, Juliet is famous for asking: ‘O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Our blog covers a range of topics from spelling and grammar tips, to unusual word origins, to idioms on every theme. If you found this article useful, why not take a look at some of our other posts?

 


18 Oct 2018
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"This is a fantastic opportunity for our students!  I'm sure Spellzone will be invaluable in helping them to improve their spellings and therefore improve the quality of their writing in all subject areas!"

Teacher, High School, UK