When using colons in a sentence, they usually join together two potentially unrelated clauses. In example:
Becky knew that Mr. Snuggle-pants the velociraptor could only want one thing: a bone.
See how the colon makes a pausing effect? Also, notice that the second clause is not complete; it's an add-on to the original sentence. The second clause could be separated, but is rather dependent on the first sentence to make sense to the reader.
Colons can also help to create lists, just like friendly little elves. For instance:
Mr. Snuggle-pants liked to be scratched in three places: under his chin, on his back, and just in front of his collar.
A third rule for using colons is what we've been using throughout this book: showing what is to come. For example:
For example:
That... Was the example. Make sure you add a line under the beginning of the statement, and you're good to go.
By the way, some may say that the word after the colon must be capitalized. For instance:
Mr. Snuggle-pants had only one enemy: The neighbor's cat.
This is more of a style choice than anything. Leave it off if you want, or just run with it. However, if your English teacher tells you to capitalize the words in this way, do it. A little grammar rule isn't worth a grade.
YOU ARE READING
Grammar! (Like a pro!)
Non-FictionOxford commas. To use, or not to use, that is the question. This book seeks to answer that question and more, with examples and just a touch of humor. Just a touch. !!! This book is currently on hiatus for summer break. Will resume writing in August...
