Colons can be used after an independent clause to introduce a list, before a quote, and to separate a verb from its object. However, colons should not be used to separate a preposition from its object, after "such as", or to pick up the main clause again after an introduced element. Common misuses of colons include using a period instead of a colon before an introduction and misspelling words like "dining".
2. When do you use a colon? After an independent clause to introduce a list. Ex. I need three things from the store: milk, eggs and bread.
3. This sign for Fuddruckers Greatest Hamburgers is incorrect. There should be a colon instead of a period. Also, they spelled “Dinning” instead of Dining Room.
4. Colons can also be used before quotes. Ex. As John F. Kennedy said: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”
5. “Piracy: It's just easier, man.” “Oh, I’d sure like to watch [any *expletive* movie]!” “That’s cool, you have three minutes?” “Yeperoo!” “OH LOOK HERE I AM ENJOYING MY MOVIE” “What I’m trying to say is: ad based streaming services for feature films. Give it a try.” This conversation is courtesy of a random tumblr site. There are two colons used and both are incorrect.
6. Correct Examples There was only one thing left to do: win the race. The major holidays coming up are as follows: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. To summarize: we found the campsite, gathered firewood, ate dinner and got attacked by bears.
7. When it comes to using colons, do not do the following: 1.use a colon to separate a preposition from its objects. 2.use a colon to separate a verb from its objects 3.use a colon after "such as.” 4.pick up the main clause again (after a word, phrase, or clause has been introduced by a colon, the sentence must end with the introduced element) Example of number 4. We were offered a choice of desserts: chocolate cake, an assortment of cookies, and a fruit cocktail, but we were too stuffed to eat another bite. *The sentence should end with fruit cocktail, and then begin a new sentence.
