A colon introduces a list, introduces a restatement of the main clause, appears at the end of a main clause and introduces an elaboration of the main clause.
2. Colon
One of the easiest forms of punctuation
Its basic function is to introduce – words, lists,
phrases, salutations (in business letters), to provide
additional details and explanations
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3. A colon gives emphasis to a statement
A reader pays attention to what comes next
e.g. Monica has only one thing on her mind:
her child.
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4. Used after the salutation (formal or business
letter)
Dear Sir:
Dear Madam:
To whom it may concern:
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5. To provide additional details and explanations
e.g. She had many reasons to read for a
Bachelor of Engineering: to get additional
qualifications, to get a good job and to
improve her knowledge
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6. To introduce lists or ideas
e.g. I have visited many countries: Australia,
Thailand, France and Germany
Aditya is successful in life because of one
good quality: he is hard working.
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7. To introduce a direct quotation
e.g. She announced to her friends: “I will
be going abroad.”
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8. Do not use a colon after a verb
Do not keep a space before a colon
Keep a space after a colon
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9. Incorrect:
My favorite foods are: rice, noodles and pasta.
My favorite countries are: the United States of America,
Australia, Germany and France.
Correct:
I have three favorite foods: rice, noodles and pasta.
I have four favorite countries: the United States of America,
Australia, Germany and France
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