# colon

/ˈkoʊɫən/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/colon
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I bought: apples and pears." but "I bought several items: apples and pears." — A colon should follow a complete sentence, not a verb or preposition.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows a complete independent clause; the information following it does not necessarily need to be a full sentence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.