Colon (:)
The colon is a punctuation mark consisting of two equally sized dots centered on the same vertical line. It is commonly known as “i.e”.
Ø Using in English
· Introducing Lists
In this sense the colon introduces a description; in particular, it makes explicit the elements of a set.
- I have three sisters: Daphne, Rose, and Suzanne.
- The car has a number of optional extras: sun roof, tinted windows, rear seat-belts, and electrically adjustable wing mirrors.
· Placed before Explanation
Put a colon to point an explanation. For example:
- Choosing the kit was easy: there were three good sport shops within walking distance.
- There can be only one reason for this delay: incompetence.
· Dialogues
This form is still used in written dialogues, such as in a play. The colon indicates that the words following an individual's name are spoken by that individual:
Patient: Doctor, I feel like a pair of curtains.
Doctor: Pull yourself together!
Sources:
Cooper, T., Fallas, J., & Flaherty, F. (2011). English Style Guide: Seventh edition. European Commission.
Englishclub.com. (2013). Punctuation. Retrieved from http://www.englishclub.com/writing/punctuation.htm.
Phythian, B. A. (2012). Correct English: Pedoman Belajar Bahasa Inggris. Jakarta : PT. Indeks.
Wikipedia. (2013). Punctuation. Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Punctuation.