Colons (:) are used in sentences to show that something is following, like a quotation, example, or list. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences.
A colon is used to give emphasis, present dialogue, introduce lists or text, and clarify composition titles.
Semicolons should introduce evidence or a reason for the preceding statement; for example, this sentence appropriately uses a semicolon. A colon, on the other hand, should be used for a stronger, more direct relationship. It should provide emphasis, an example, or an explanation.
Semicolon ( ; )
Semicolons are punctuation marks that connect independent clauses to show a closer relationship between the clauses than a period would. They can also separate items in a list that already include commas. Connecting independent clauses - John was hurt; he knew she only said it to upset him.
Use colons to introduce quotations after an independent clause. Use a comma when introducing quotations after a dependent clause.
DO NOT use a colon if the complete statement is followed by a transitional word or phrase such as “namely”, “for example”, “for instance”, or “however”. In this case, use a semicolon (;) before the transitional word and a comma (,) after it.
How not to use a colon Incorrect example: The grocery list included: apples, grapes, milk, bread, and eggs. “The grocery list included” is not an independent clause, so it cannot be used with a colon—even if it is listing something after!
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. See APA 4.05 for more information on colons.
Colon. The colon is used chiefly to introduce a list, quotation, or explanation following an independent clause (complete sentence). Use a colon at the end of a complete statement to introduce a list. Example: I have a few favorite classes at LLCC: literature, psychology, and art.
An ellipsis ( ... ) consists of three evenly spaced periods and is used to indicate the omission of words or suggest an incomplete thought.
The colon is the symbol ":". It is used in a number of different ways in mathematics. 1. To denote ratio or odds, as in 2:1 (voiced "two to one").
A colon is a punctuation mark that is used to divide a sentence. The colon resembles two dots positioned vertically (:). The colon has a variety of uses, some of which include introducing a list, introducing an explanation, introducing a quote, and connecting two related sentences.
Like commas, semicolons indicate an audible pause—slightly longer than a comma's, but short of a period's full stop. Semicolons have other functions, too. But first, a caveat: avoid the common mistake of using a semicolon to replace a colon (see Colons). Incorrect: I have one goal; to find her.
Semicolons are most often used to connect two independent clauses (full sentences) that are related in meaning. Both the words before the semicolon and the words after it must be complete sentences that could be separated with a period. We could go fishing on Saturday. You could borrow a pole from my neighbor.
John finished all his homework, but Kathleen did not finish hers. Correct: John finished all his homework; Kathleen did not finish hers. Semicolons should not be used between a dependent clause and an independent clause.
The colon
The colon is often used to introduce a list of items. For example: You will need to bring three things to the party: some food, something to drink, and a small gift for the hostess. This sentence contains a list of three items.
Semicolons separate items within a list, while a colon precedes and introduces a list. He took three things on the hike; his lunch, his binoculars, and his trusty walking stick.
(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.
Rule 1: Use the colon after a complete sentence to introduce a list of items when introductory words such as namely, for example, or that is do not apply or are not appropriate. Examples: You may be required to bring many items: sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing.
In American usage, only a personal letter takes a comma here, while a business letter takes a colon: Dear Esther, but. Dear Mr.
Semicolon.
The most-frequently misused punctuation mark; it is sometimes used as a replacement for a comma or even a colon. I hate semicolons – in my writing, they're replaced by a dash or by breaking the thought into two sentences.
The semicolon is the most commonly misused punctuation mark in the classroom. A semicolon punctuation mark is a symbol commonly used in the English language to punctuate complex sentences. They can be used between two closely related, independent clauses to make writing clearer.
When listing items one by one, one per line, following a colon, capitalization and ending punctuation are optional when using single words or phrases preceded by letters, numbers, or bullet points. If each point is a complete sentence, capitalize the first word and end the sentence with appropriate ending punctuation.