The colon and semicolon punctuation marks have several distinct functions. The colon is the ideal punctuation for when you are trying to illustrate or enumerate. You place a colon at the end of a complete sentence to introduce a list or an explanation. Semicolons, on the other hand, are known to separate closely related, complete sentences.
Use a Colon to List
You can use a colon to introduce a list.
Example: We have several excellent counselors on staff: James, Phyllis, and Greg.
When introducing a list, colons are especially popular with words such as: namely, as follows, such as, these, and the following.
Example: You can have one of the following fruits: apple, pineapple, or grapes.
Use a Colon to Illustrate
A colon is a perfect punctuation mark for material that illustrates, explains, or restates the preceding material.
Example: He had one pet: a dog.
Example: The cause of the accident was obvious: The brakes on his car were cut.
You should remember that when a complete sentence follows a colon the first word should be capitalized.
Using a Semicolon to Separate Related Clauses
You can use a semicolon to separate a main clause from a supporting one.
Example: She had full eyebrows; they made her look younger.
Use a Semicolon with Conjunctive Adverbs
It is common practice to use semicolons with a conjunctive adverb, such as however, therefore, accordingly, and consequently. These conjunctive adverbs usually appear directly after a semicolon. Though this is not a requirement, it is one of several correct approaches.
Correct Approach: The law is clear on predial larceny; therefore, the judge has no other option.
Correct Approach: The law is clear on predial larceny; the judge, therefore, has no other option.
Correct Approach: The law is clear on predial larceny. Therefore, the judge has no other option.
Using a Semicolon with a List
Like the colon, you can also use the semicolon with a list, just in a different way. Semicolons can separate list items, in a sentence, that already contains a comma.
Example: Some of the most popular cities in the Caribbean are Kingston, Jamaica; Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago; and Saint Michael, Barbados.
When Not to Use a Colon
It is a popular convention to place colons after verbs. However, you should avoid this practice.
Incorrect Example: The two major teams in the city are: the Bulls and the Windstorms.
Correct Example: The two major teams in the city are the Bulls and the Windstorms.
You should check to ensure that the words preceding a colon create a complete sentence.
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