Word
colon
/ˈkoʊɫən/
Definition
n. a punctuation mark (:) that you use to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation. It tells the reader that more information is coming next.
n. a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quotation, or an explanation that expands upon the preceding clause. Often used to link two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first.
Examples
“The author uses a colon to create a dramatic pause, forcing the reader to focus on the single word that follows as the ultimate resolution of the plot.”
Examples
complex
“The author uses a colon to create a dramatic pause, forcing the reader to focus on the single word that follows as the ultimate resolution of the plot.”
Usage
Typically follows a complete independent clause; the information following it does not necessarily need to be a full sentence.
Pitfall
I bought: apples and pears.
I bought several items: apples and pears.
A colon should follow a complete sentence, not a verb or preposition.
Related words
Domain
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/colon