What is colon and 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.

How do you use a colon in a sentence?

Colons follow independent clauses (clauses that could stand alone as sentences) and can be used to present an explanation, draw attention to something, or join ideas together….Colons

1. To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation.
2. To join sentences.

What is a colon grammar?

Colon Basics. 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 are some examples of colon?

2. Examples of a Colon

• Sally plays three sports: softball, soccer, and tennis. List.
• I didn’t eat the sandwich: it had way too much mayo. Explanation.
• She hated the team’s jerseys: brown and red with purple stripes. Description.
• My neighbor has a “green thumb”: excellent gardening skills. Definition.

What is a colon in human body?

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.

How do you use a colon list?

Use a colon to introduce an item or list, if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. For example: There are three things every dog needs: food, water and healthcare. You need to grab these three things for the laundry: laundry detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets.

Did I use a colon correctly?

The hard and fast rule is that a colon must ALWAYS follow a complete sentence. Do not use a colon after a sentence fragment, ever. A colon is used after a full sentence or independent clause to introduce something that illustrates, clarifies, or amplifies what was said in the sentence that preceded the colon.

Where is colon used?

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.

Why should we use colon?

Colons. A colon introduces an element or series of elements that illustrates or amplifies the information that preceded the colon. While a semicolon normally joins two independent clauses to signal a close connection between them, a colon does the job of directing you to the information following it.

When should I use a colon?

When to Use a Colon. A colon is used to make lists and tell the reader, “This is what I mean.” The colon should not be used often in most kinds of writing unless there are extensive lists involved. The rules of the colon are strict but fairly easy to remember.

What is the proper use of colon?

Properly use colons in sentences. The colon (:) is another punctuation mark used to indicate a full stop. Use a colon to introduce lists, quotes, examples, and explanations. You can also use a colon after the greeting in business letters and memos.

What are the uses of colon?

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.

What are the rules for colon?

There are five key rules for colon usage that should always be followed: 1. Use a colon to introduce an item or list, if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. 2. Use colons between two sentences if the second sentence emphasizes or illustrates the first. 3. Use a colon to introduce a bulleted or numbered list.