You two points (: )represent a graphic sign that is part of the punctuation marks.
In the production of texts, they mark a brief pause in the speech. They are usually used before an explanation or clarification, after vocatives, in summaries or summaries, quotations, speeches (direct speech), enumerations, examples, among others.
It is interesting to note that in mathematics, the two points correspond to the sign of the division (44:2=22 - It reads: forty-four divided by two, equal to twenty-two)
Uses of Colon: Examples
To better understand the concept of this punctuation mark and know when and how to use it, here are some examples:
1. In explanations or clarifications
Entrepreneurship corresponds to a new concept that includes essential concepts: proactivity and the ability to create something innovative.
2. In summaries or summaries
In Brazil, the problem of violence increases every day. Therefore, most citizens of the country are afraid to leave their homes. In summary: Violence and fear are growing in the country.
3. in direct speeches
After listening carefully to the teacher's question, José replied: — I'm not prepared for the test.
4. in quotes
The Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa already said: “Everything is worth it if the soul is not small”.
5. In the enumerations
The planets in the solar system are: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.
6. In the examples
The noun is a class of word that names beings, for example: house, car, furniture.
7. after vocatives
Ms. Daiana: Can we participate in the event on Friday?
Difference between Colons and Semicolons
The big difference between the semicolon and the colon is the pause they offer to text production, since they can perform the same function within a text, for example, enumeration.
Thus, the period is a comma indicates a pause greater than the comma and less than the period, separating sentences, ideas or textual elements.
The two points, on the other hand, indicate a shorter pause in the speech used in direct speeches, explanations, quotes, enumerations, among others.
Fun Facts: Did You Know?
According to the new orthographic agreement, the use of the hyphen in the terms “colon” is optional, that is, it can be written in two ways: a colon and a colon.
To learn more about the subject, see also:
- Types of Phrases and Punctuation
- Comma Uses: Learn the Tricks
- Exclamation Point: when to use?
- Question Mark: when to use?