ESL Punctuation - colon
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The document outlines the rules and functions of using colons in English punctuation. It details various applications, including introducing lists, providing explanations, and formatting salutations in business letters. The author, Arundathie Abeysinghe, also offers tips and examples for correct and incorrect uses of colons.
ESL Punctuation - colon
- 1. By Arundathie Abeysinghe Lecturer in English International Aviation Academy Srilankan Airlines Punctuation Colon 1 Arundathie Abeysinghe
- 2. Colon One of the easiest forms of punctuation Its basic function is to introduce – words, lists, phrases, salutations (in business letters), to provide additional details and explanations 2 Arundathie Abeysinghe
- 3. Rule 1 A colon gives emphasis to a statement A reader pays attention to what comes next e.g. Monica has only one thing on her mind: her child. Arundathie Abeysinghe 3
- 4. Rule 2 Used after the salutation (formal or business letter) Dear Sir: Dear Madam: To whom it may concern: Arundathie Abeysinghe 4
- 5. Rule 3 To provide additional details and explanations e.g. She had many reasons to read for a Bachelor of Engineering: to get additional qualifications, to get a good job and to improve her knowledge Arundathie Abeysinghe 5
- 6. Rule 4 To introduce lists or ideas e.g. I have visited many countries: Australia, Thailand, France and Germany Aditya is successful in life because of one good quality: he is hard working. Arundathie Abeysinghe 6
- 7. Rule 5 To introduce a direct quotation e.g. She announced to her friends: “I will be going abroad.” Arundathie Abeysinghe 7
- 8. Tips for using colons Do not use a colon after a verb Do not keep a space before a colon Keep a space after a colon Arundathie Abeysinghe 8
- 9. Correct and incorrect uses of colons Incorrect: My favorite foods are: rice, noodles and pasta. My favorite countries are: the United States of America, Australia, Germany and France. Correct: I have three favorite foods: rice, noodles and pasta. I have four favorite countries: the United States of America, Australia, Germany and France Arundathie Abeysinghe 9