Colons with long 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?

Associated lessons:   Colon or comma before quotation (speech) marks? Three dots (ellipsis) in quotation (speech) marks Punctuation inside or outside quotation (speech) marks? How to use colons to extend sentences Colons in references Using colons for introductions Colons with bullet points

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