Grammar: B1 - ✨ Grammar Essentials: ✏️ Writing Mechanics - Intermediate - Lesson 5: Colons (basic use: introducing lists, explanations)

Punctuation: The Colon

B2 Lesson 5: Introducing Lists & Explanations

What you will learn: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to correctly use a colon (:) to introduce a list or an explanation, ensuring it always follows a complete sentence.

The Golden Rule of Colons

The colon (:) is a punctuation mark that tells the reader, "Pay attention, here comes an important piece of information." Its most important rule is simple.

A colon must always follow a complete sentence (an independent clause).
[Complete Sentence] : [Introduction]

Use 1: Introducing a List

A colon is often used to introduce a list of items. The key is to make sure the part of the sentence before the colon can stand on its own.

• My tour of the temples includes three main stops: Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
• To travel in Siem Reap, you have a few options: tuk-tuk, moto, or bicycle.

Common Mistake: Do not place a colon directly after a verb or a preposition (like 'for', 'of', 'are', 'include').

Incorrect: The temples are: Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
Correct: The temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.

Incorrect: I need to buy: bananas, water, and bread.
Correct: I need to buy bananas, water, and bread.

Use 2: Introducing an Explanation or Elaboration

You can also use a colon to connect two sentences when the second sentence explains or clarifies the first one. It adds emphasis.

• He had only one goal for his trip: to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat.
• The restaurant was perfect for one reason: the food was the best I've ever had.
• I know what we should do next: let's go get some ice cream!

Practice Your Punctuation 🎯

Exercise: Is the Colon Correct?

Read the sentences and decide if the colon is used correctly or incorrectly.

1. The hotel had everything we wanted: a big swimming pool, a good restaurant, and friendly staff.
   → Correct. The first part is a complete sentence.
2. My favorite foods are: fish amok, beef lok lak, and Khmer curry.
   → Incorrect. The colon should not follow the verb 'are'.
3. I have a difficult choice to make: should I travel now or save my money?
   → Correct. The second part explains the 'difficult choice'.
4. We visited places like: the Royal Palace and the National Museum.
   → Incorrect. The colon should not follow a preposition like 'like'.

Your Punctuation Mission ⭐

Write with a Colon

Write two of your own sentences using a colon correctly. Follow the examples.

Example (List): I want to visit three countries: Japan, Italy, and Brazil.

Example (Explanation): I had a problem this morning: my moto wouldn't start.

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1. (List): __________________________________________________

2. (Explanation): ___________________________________________

Key Vocabulary

• Colon (Noun) | សញ្ញាចុចពីរ
  The punctuation mark (:) used to introduce a list, explanation, or example.
• Introduce (Verb) | ណែនាំ
  To present or bring something forward for the first time.
• Elaboration (Noun) | ការពន្យល់បន្ថែម
  The process of adding more detail or information to an idea.