When should a colon be used examples

A colon (:) can be used to introduce words, phrases, lists of items, explanations, and elaborations. It can also be used to introduce a quotation.

In general, you can think of colons as saying “what comes next explains what came before.” A colon must be preceded by an independent clause: a fully formed thought that could stand as a sentence on its own.

Table of contents

1. Introducing a word or phrase
2. Introducing a list
3. Introducing an explanation or elaboration
4. Introducing a quotation

Introducing a word or phrase

Colons can be used to add emphasis when introducing single words or phrases.

• She asked for only one thing: understanding.
• The researchers found something unexpected: a dramatically lowered risk of heart disease.

When using a colon this way, always make sure the text before the comma is an independent clause that could stand as a complete sentence on its own.

• The first step towards a healthier lifestyle is: a good night’s sleep.
• The first step towards a healthier lifestyle is simple: a good night’s sleep.

Introducing a list

A colon can be used to introduce a list when the introductory phrase is an independent clause.

• My garden has four kinds of flowers: daffodils, tulips, roses, and chrysanthemums.

However, a colon is not always needed to introduce a list. Make sure not to use a colon after the verbs to be or to include.

• The four kinds of flowers in my garden are: daffodils, tulips, roses, and chrysanthemums.
• The four kinds of flowers in my garden are daffodils, tulips, roses, and chrysanthemums.

The first sentence is incorrect because the part before the colon is not an independent clause—it doesn’t form a full sentence on its own. The word are already signals that what will follow is connected to what comes before, so no colon is needed to connect the list to its introduction.

The table below shows two ways of fixing this error: removing the colon or rewriting the text that precedes it.

• Incorrect colon

• Rewrite introduction

• Remove colon

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Introducing an explanation or elaboration

A colon can connect two independent clauses when the second clause explains, elaborates on, or follows from the first.

• Though some of my colleagues disagree, I stand by my opinion: catering to current market trends alone won’t ensure the long-term success of the company.

As always, when using a colon to introduce an explanation, make sure that the text before the colon could stand as a complete sentence.

• Incorrect colon

• Rewrite introduction

• Remove colon

Introducing a quotation

A colon can also be used to introduce a quotation.

• The teacher shouted at the students: “Don’t talk when I am speaking!”
• It was all over the news: “Prime Minister resigns in tears.”

Sources in this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

Luo, A. (2022, November 29). When to Use a Colon (:) | Rules, Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://www.scribbr.com/language-rules/colons/

Cite this article

Butterfield, J. (Ed.). (2015). Fowler’s dictionary of modern English usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

How do you use a colon example?

A colon can be used to connect two independent sentences. Typically, a colon is used when the second sentence clarifies or explains the first sentence. For example, Me and my sisters are really excited: We're going to Disneyland!

Should for example have a colon?

Do not use a colon in a complete sentence after phrases such as "such as," "including," and "for example." Because phrases like these already indicate to the reader that a list of examples will follow, there is no need to introduce them with a colon, which would merely be redundant.

When should a semi colon be used examples?

When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some common conjunctive adverbs include moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, and consequently. I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk.