Colons with quotations


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Colons are used to introduce quotations of more than 6 words.

Colons before Quotations

When introducing a quotation of more than 6 words, use a colon. For quotations comprising six or fewer words, use a comma.

Examples:

The minister shouted: "Do not worry. The next time I stand up here, I will have answers to these questions."

The aliens repeatedly insisted: "We come in peace. Take me to your
leader."

The referee yelled: "not on my pitch...off!"

(only five words - should be a comma)

The priestess whispered: "Take them to the pit."

(only five words - should be a comma)

DON'T WORRY

This is by no means a hard and fast rule, and commas can be used instead.

See the lesson Quotation Marks - Colons or Commas?

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