Examples of Colons and Semicolons in Sentences

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Colons and semicolons are two types of punctuation. Colons (:) are used in sentences to introduce that something follows like a quotation, example or a list. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, to separate main clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb or to separate items in a list that already uses commas. Still confused?

Check out the YourDictionary Punctuation Jungle infographic on punctuation for an easy-to-understand visual explanation.

Colons Used in Sentences

• There are two choices at this time: run away or fight.
• We knew who would win the game: the Eagles
• He wanted to see three cities in Italy: Rome, Florence and Venice
• Remember: Two can play at that game.
• She kept repeating: “I really want that car!”
• Barry wanted to know why I didn’t respond to his text: I hadn’t received it.
• Here are three states that begin with M: Michigan, Mississippi and Maine.
• You can come pick me up now: I am feeling much better.
• Never forget this point: Think before you speak.
• This house has everything I need: two bedrooms, a backyard and a garage.
• The town reminded me of my childhood vacations: both were on the beach.
• I have several favorite genres of movies: drama, science fiction and mystery.
• This was first said by Shakespeare: “To thine own self be true.”
• I bought a lot of meat at the store: bacon, turkey, chicken and tuna.
• The world is a stage: play your role well.
• The new boss has many nice traits: friendly, outgoing and fair.
• These are my favorite colors: purple, turquoise, pink and yellow.

Semicolons in Sentences 

• Dad is going bald; his hair is getting thinner and thinner.
• I really like beef, with mushroom sauce; pasta, with Alfredo sauce; and salad, with French dressing.
• You should stop eating so much food; you will have to go on a diet.
• You need new brakes; otherwise you may not be able to stop in time.
• Star Trek was my favorite television show during the 1960s; in fact, it is my favorite television show of all time.
• I had a huge meal; however, I am already hungry again.
• The Christmas ornaments are finally packed away: small, shiny ones; big, bright ones; and the homemade ones.
• She had self-defense training; consequently she warded off the assailant.
• We had students from Lima, Peru; Santiago, Chile; and Caracas, Venezuela.
• We had too many fumbles; we lost the game.
• I know you don’t like broccoli; nevertheless it is very good for you.
• Michelle drives a Jaguar; Sonya drives a Porsche.
• I have finished the main course; now I have to make dessert.
• Spring brings gentle rains and warmer weather; in addition to thunderstorms and hail.
• She calls it the bathroom; I call it the loo.
• Mom wants the chores completed; moreover she wants them done properly.
• I will be there as soon as I finish working; that is a promise I will definitely keep.
• She didn’t see the other car coming; now her car has a huge dent.
• There is mounting evidence of global warning; of course some people will never believe it.