Three uses for colons

1. Colons can be used to join two independent clauses

This is useful when you wish to emphasize the second clause. For example:

• I forgot my umbrella: we got soaked.

2. Colons can be used to introduce a clause that reflects something in the clause preceding the colon.

For example:

• We like several types of movies: romance movies are emotionally moving, but action movies are really exciting.

3. Colons can be used to introduce lists, quotations, and explanations.

For example:

• I have many different favourite teams: the Oilers, the Flames, and the Blue Jays.
• U.S. President George Washington once said the following: "To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace."
• This is how it happened: I had a quarter for the meter, then I dropped it down the sewer crack, I came out of the store and suddenly, I had a parking ticket!

Additional Resources

• When to use a Colon, With Examples

This entry from the Grammarly Blog provides alternate explanations of how colons are used, examples of correct colon use, and more!

• Colons and Semi Colons

This video from The School of Life is useful to better understand the differences between colons and semi-colons.