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Punctuation: colon

Explanations​

A colon (:) usually introduces an explanation or further details.

  • We decided not to go to Mexico: we had too little money.
  • There was a problem with the car: it was losing oil.

Lists​

A colon can introduce a list.

  • The main points are as follows: (1) … , (2) … , (3) … .
  • We need three kinds of support: economic, moral and political.

Subdivisions​

A colon can introduce a subdivision of a subject in a title or heading.

  • PUNCTUATION: COLON

Capitals​

In British English, it is unusual for a capital letter to follow a colon (except at the beginning of a quotation). However, this can happen if a colon is followed by several complete sentences.

  • My main objections are as follows:
    • First of all, no complete budget has been drawn up.
    • Secondly, there is no guarantee that …

In American English, colons are more often followed by capital letters.

Letters​

Americans usually put a colon after the opening salutation (Dear …) in a business letter.

  • Dear Mr. Callan:
    I am writing to …

British usage prefers a comma or no punctuation mark at all in this case.

Direct speech​

Normally, direct speech is introduced by a comma in writing.

  • Stewart opened his eyes and said, ‘Who’s your beautiful friend?’

But a long passage of direct speech may be introduced by a colon.

  • Introducing his report for the year, the Chairman said: ‘A number of factors have contributed to the company’s very gratifying results. First of all, …’

And a colon is used when direct speech is introduced by a name or short phrase (as in the text of a play, or when famous sayings are quoted).

  • Polonius: What do you read, my lord?
    Hamlet: Words, words, words.

  • In the words of Murphy’s Law: ‘Anything that can go wrong will go wrong.’