examples of using a comma

Use the comma as follows:

1. In a list or series Example We serve cupcakes, cookies, and prophecies.
2. To separate independent clauses Example Make a list of tasks, and check them off as you go.
3. After a subordinate clause Example If you want to win, you must learn to lose.
4. To offset a contrast clause Example Dogs run, whereas cats just teleport themselves to unknown places.

More items...

Full Answer

How, why and when to use commas correctly in writing?

Why and when to use commas

• Connecting two independent clauses. You can use commas to connect two completely independent phrases. ...
• Eliminate confusion. Writing without commas can become a confusing read. ...
• Separate items. We use commas to separate several list items in one sentence. ...
• Introductory adverbs. ...
• Address elements. ...
• Full dates. ...
• Summary. ...

What are the 5 comma rules?

5. X,Y, and Z. Put commas between items in a list. When giving a short and simple list of things in a sentence, the last comma (right before the conjunction–usually and or or) is optional, but it is never wrong. If the items in the list are longer and more complicated, you should always place a final comma before the conjunction.

What are the rules for using a comma?

• Commas don't just signify pauses in a sentence — precise rules govern when to use this punctuation mark.
• Commas are needed before coordinating conjunctions, after dependent clauses (when they precede independent clauses), and to set off appositives.
• The Oxford comma reduces ambiguity in lists.
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When to use a comma?

to host the clinic and she thought it would be a wonderful idea to allow them to use the CoMMA for it. “I think the more opportunity people have to have access to a vaccine, I think that’s ...

What are the 10 uses of comma?

When to Use a Comma: 10 Rules and ExamplesRule #1: Use Commas to Separate Items in a List. ... Rule #2: Use a Comma After an Introductory Word or Phrase. ... Rule #3: Use a Comma Before a Quotation. ... Rule #4: Use a Comma to Separate a Dependent Clause That Comes BEFORE the Independent Clause.More items...•15-Aug-2019

How do commas work in a list example?

When writing a list, you should put a comma between each item, except for the last item where you use 'and'. For example: "I need to go to the supermarket to buy eggs, milk, bread, sugar and orange juice."

Can you use for example after a comma?

A comma after “for example” is generally necessary no matter where it appears in the sentence. In particular, you need to place a post-comma when it serves as the introductory phrase of a sentence, when you're parenthetically using it midway, and when it comes after a semicolon.27-Mar-2021

How do you use a comma with but in a sentence?

You should put a comma before but only when but is connecting two independent clauses. I would go for a walk, but it's raining outside. Here's a tip: Commas can be tricky, but they don't have to trip you up.

What are the 8 rules for commas?

Commas (Eight Basic Uses)Use a comma to separate independent clauses. ... Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase. ... Use a comma between all items in a series. ... Use commas to set off nonrestrictive clauses. ... Use a comma to set off appositives. ... Use a comma to indicate direct address. ... Use commas to set off direct quotations.More items...

Can you put a comma before and in a sentence?

Whether or not you put a comma before and depends on how you're using and. There's no single rule that applies to all situations. You usually put a comma before and when it's connecting two independent clauses. It's almost always optional to put a comma before and in a list.

How do you write for example?

The abbreviation “e.g.” stands for the Latin exempli gratia, which means “for example” or “for the sake of example.” The abbreviation “i.e.” stands for the Latin phrase id est, which means “that is to say” or “in other words.” When writing, we often use these terms like examples (e.g.) to emphasize a point or use (i.e. ...14-May-2021

What are some good sentence starters?

Good sentence starters for sequences or listsFirst . . ., Second . . ., Third . . ., etc.Next . . .Then . . .Subsequently . . .After that . . .Afterwards . . .Eventually . . .Later . . .More items...•16-Sept-2021

How do you put for example in a sentence?

You use for example to introduce and emphasize something that shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: "The man climbed up the hill."

Does the comma go before or after because?

Because is a subordinating conjunction, which means that it connects a subordinate clause to an independent clause; good style dictates that there should be no comma between these two clauses. An exception can and should be made when the lack of a comma would cause ambiguity.

Do you put comma before if?

A comma before “if” is necessary when it comes after an introductory remark at the beginning of a sentence. We also need a comma when “if” is used after a mid-sentence transition phrase such as “for example” or “that is”.27-Mar-2021

Does a comma go before or after or?

The answer depends on how you are using or. Always place a comma before or when it begins an independent clause, but if it begins a dependent clause, don't. In a series (or list) of three or more items, you can use a comma before or, but this is a preference, not a rule.

Why do we use commas in writing?

Commas are used to split up different parts of a sentence, and when used correctly they bring clarity and flow to your writing. They’re probably the most common piece of punctuation in English, which means that they’re often the most misused.

How to avoid commas in a sentence?

To avoid comma mistakes, pay attention to the function of different words in your sentences and their relation to each other. A comma should generally not come between a verb (the action word) and its subject (the person or thing doing the action).

What is the comma used in a coordinating conjunction?

The clauses can be joined by a semicolon, a colon, or a coordinating conjunction ( for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so ). When two independent clauses are connected by a coordinating conjunction, always use a comma before the conjunction. Many scientists have tried to solve the problem, but none have succeeded.

What is a serial comma?

Serial commas. In lists, commas are used to separate each item, and the last item is separated by a conjunction ( and , or ). A comma before the conjunction, known as the serial comma or Oxford comma, is optional. Whether or not you choose to use it, make sure to be consistent. With serial comma.

Is there a comma after a dependent clause?

When a dependent clause comes after an independent clause, a comma is often not necessary, especially if it adds information that is essential to the meaning of the independent clause.

Do dogs have commas?

Dogs, cats, and tortoises have been known to act strangely before major seismic events. Dogs, cats and tortoises have been known to act strangely before major seismic events. Sometimes a serial comma is necessary for clarity. One example is when the final list item itself contains a conjunction.

Is a comma always accurate?

However the model is not always accurate. However, the model is not always accurate. With longer introductory phrases that set the stage for the main part of the sentence, it’s generally best to use a comma, especially if the phrase is more than 3–4 words long.

What does it mean when you use a comma?

When you are using a comma, remember it means “pause, ” so try reading your sentence out loud to see if you are pausing at the right time.

Why do we use commas in sentences?

Commas separate ideas, add pauses, and help you to list things clearly. They also let us connect words, phrases, and clauses together to make longer sentences. In fact, the comma is one of the most important and commonly used types of punctuation. Without them, sentences would just be messy!

What is a comma splice?

Comma Splice. A comma splicehappens when you connect two independent clauses with only a comma, and not a conjunction: I can’t go to the dance,you should go without me.      Comma splice. In English, this is a grammar error.

When to use a comma between independent and dependent clause?

Only sometimes, when you are showing a big contrast between two things, you can use a comma between an independent and dependent clause: Sally had a terrible time at the dance,even though she was elected prom queen. Sally was having great time at the dance, until she found out she wasn’t prom queen.

Do you need a comma in "The Rabbit hopped"?

You could add one more comma to this sentence, but it isn’t required: The rabbit hopped,and then,he ate a carrot. Furthermore, there are two other specific mistakes that happen with commas: comma splices and run-on sentences. a.

Why do we put a comma in a sentence?

Simply put, a comma helps a sentence make sense. Similar to how a person’s voice might pause or change in pitch when talking, a comma signals readers to a quick pause or shift in tone.

Why do we use commas in writing?

The Final Word on when to use a Comma. Commas are intended to make your writing clearer by separating words, phrases, and clauses. All the “rules” are not intended to generate anxiety as you write. The best way to overcome your worry is to strengthen your understanding.

What are conjunctive adverbs?

A conjunctive adverb is defined as an adverb that joins two sentences together and usually appears near the middle of a sentence. Examples of conjunctive adverbs include: 1 however 2 nevertheless 3 therefore 4 consequently 5 besides 6 finally 7 similarly 8 meanwhile

How to use a comma with an appositive?

In writing, an appositive’s grammatical function involves placing a noun or noun phrase near another noun to provide more information about that noun. Using an appositive is a simple way of adding extra information about the noun.

What is the comma after "showered"?

An Oxford comma, or serial comma, is the final comma in a list. In the examples above, the serial or Oxford comma appears after the words “showered” and “cards.”. Some style guides, such as the AP Stylebook, don’t require the Oxford comma, but for the most part, using the Oxford comma is a good rule to follow to avoid misreading the sentence.

When to avoid a comma splice?

Avoid Creating a Comma Splice. A comma splice occurs when you join two complete sentences with a comma. If each part of the sentence could stand alone and make sense, you should use a semicolon or period in place of the comma. The period is preferred unless the second sentence is integral to the first.

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Think of a coordinating conjunction as a word that joins two complete thoughts into one with equal emphasis on both parts of the sentence. Coordinating conjunctions are these words: for. and.

When to use a comma in a sentence?

Example: That is my money, not yours. Rule 16a. Use a comma before and after certain introductory words or terms , such as namely, that is, i.e., e.g., and for instance, when they are followed by a series of items.

How to know if a comma is needed?

Another way to determine if a comma is needed is to mentally put and between the two adjectives. If the result still makes sense, add the comma. In the examples above, a strong and healthy man makes sense, but an expensive and summer resort does not. Rule 3a.

When is a comma unnecessary?

A comma is usually unnecessary when the sentence starts with an independent clause followed by a dependent clause. Example: Let me know now if you are not sure about this. Rule 5. Use commas to set off nonessential words, clauses, and phrases (see Who, That, Which, Rule 2b).

What is the most commonly used punctuation mark?

Commas and periods are the most frequently used punctuation marks. Commas customarily indicate a brief pause; they're not as final as periods. Rule 1. Use commas to separate words and word groups in a simple series of three or more items. Example: My estate goes to my husband, son, daughter-in-law, and nephew.

When to use a comma in an introduction?

If such a phrase contains more than one preposition, a comma may be used unless a verb immediately follows the phrase.

Do fiction books use commas?

Fiction and nonfiction books generally prefer the Oxford comma. Writers must decide Oxford or no Oxford and not switch back and forth, except when omitting the Oxford comma could cause confusion as in the cheese and crackers example. Rule 2. Use a comma to separate two adjectives when the order of the adjectives is interchangeable.

Do newspapers use the Oxford comma?

Most newspapers and magazine s drop the Oxford comma in a simple series, apparently feeling it's unnecessary. However, omission of the Oxford comma can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Example: We had coffee, cheese and crackers and grapes.

When do you put a comma before "but"?

(There are other conjunctions, but these three are the most common.) When a conjunction joins two standalone sentences (or independent clauses ), it is usual to place a comma before it. For example (conjunctions shaded): Lee can sing, and he can dance.

What is offset by commas, brackets, or dashes called?

The information which is offset by commas, brackets, or dashes is called a parenthesis. The punctuation marks used to offset a parenthesis (i.e., dashes, brackets, or commas) are called parentheses. Examples (with each example of parenthesis shaded): The case has, in some respects, been not entirely devoid of interest.

Do you need a comma before "scene setting"?

Second "scene setting" adverb – no comma required) When an adverbial clause or phrase is at the end of a sentence, there is usually no need for a comma before it. When it is in the middle of a sentence, you should use commas (i.e., one at the start and one at the end) if you think the commas will help the reader.

Is a comma good for reading?

At school, many of us were told that a comma is where you take a breath. This is fairly good advice when you're reading someone else's work aloud. However, it is terrible advice when you're thinking about where to put commas in your own work. The ten rules for using commas are listed above and detailed below.

Is there a comma before "fish chips"?

The comma before the conjunction is known as an Oxford Comma, and it is condoned by lots of individuals and organizations in the UK, and it is avoided by a few individuals and organizations in the US. Therefore:

Do you put a comma in a sentence?

Words that "set the scene" at the start of a sentence are usually followed by a comma. You do not have to use a comma; i.e., it is not a strict ruling. It's just a common style. However, as it will help your reader, it is a useful style to adopt. For example:

Is it normal to have an interjection in the middle of a sentence?

Often, an interjection will sit at the start of the sentence but not always. It is normal to offset an interjection with a comma (or commas if it's in the middle of the sentence). In the examples below, the interjections are shaded: Oh great, the boiler's broken down. Yes, that's three out of three.

When to use a comma in a list?

When you have a list that contains more than two elements, use commas to separate them. Julie loves ice cream books and kittens. Julie loves ice cream, books, and kittens. Julie loves ice cream, books and kittens. (The comma before the and in a list of three or more items is optional.

What does a comma mean in a sentence?

While a period ends a sentence, a comma indicates a smaller break. Some writers think of a comma as a soft pause—a punctuation mark that separates words, clauses, or ideas within a sentence.

When to use parentheses in a sentence?

Parentheses are used to give additional information to the reader—information that would disrupt the flow of the sentence if written as a nonrestrictive clause. Commas may be placed after the closing parenthesis but not before either the opening or the closing parenthesis. If the sentence would not require any commas if the parenthetical statement were removed, the sentence should not have any commas when the parentheses are added.

How to tell if an adjective is coordinate?

One way to tell whether the adjectives are coordinate is to try switching the order of them . If the sentence still sounds natural, the adjectives are coordinate.

When do you need a conjunction?

When you want to join two independent clauses , you need a conjunction or a semicolon. A comma alone isn’t strong enough to join them. This kind of mistake is called a comma splice.

What is an appositive in a sentence?

An appositive is a word or phrase that refers to the same thing as another noun in the same sentence. Often, the appositive provides additional information about the noun or helps to distinguish it in some way. If you could remove the appositive without changing the meaning of the sentence, it is said to be nonessential and should be set off with commas. If the appositive is necessary, it’s said to be essential and it should not be set off with commas.

What is a comma in writing?

October 22, 2020 Writing Tips. Even professional writers struggle with commas. In theory, everyone knows what a comma is—it’s a pause between parts of a sentence. In practice, though, it can be difficult to figure out where commas actually belong. Here’s a quick, user-friendly guide to help you master the comma in your everyday writing.

Why do we put commas in sentences?

(Pro tip: That rarely works.) Commas confuse us perhaps because there are so many rules for using them, and also because comma usage varies by style.

What is a conjunction in a sentence?

Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses together. There are different types of conjunctions, but for now, we’ll keep it simple. (You’re welcome!) When should you use commas with conjunctions?

Is there a comma before "because"?

Its job is straightforward—it introduces a “clause of purpose.” A clause beginning with because answers the question “Why?” There’s usually no comma before because.

Do professional writers use commas?

Even professional writers struggle with commas. In theory, everyone knows what a comma is—it’s a pause between parts of a sentence. In practice, though, it can be difficult to figure out where commas actually belong. Here’s a quick, user-friendly guide to help you master the comma in your everyday writing.

Is the Oxford comma a real comma?

The Oxford comma is an infamous example. The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook doesn’t ban the Oxford comma, but the guide recommends using it only when necessary for clarity. The Chicago Manual of Style, on the other hand, favors the Oxford comma. It’s a real comma conundrum! #oxfordcomma https://t.co/fGHbj2lXky.

What is a comma in a sentence?

Commas are punctuation marks that mostly indicate pauses in sentences. The tricky thing about commas is that most people struggle to know where to put commas in sentences. There is some flexibility but knowing the comma rules will help you take away the guess work and build confidence in your placement of commas.

How to use commas in a list?

Use commas with lists. Use commas to separate direct quotations. Use commas to set off certain words. Use commas after an introductory clause or phrase. Use commas to separate independent clauses. Use commas to set off participial phrases. Use commas between certain parts of address. Use commas to separate certain parts of a date.

When to use a comma after a date?

You will need to place a comma after the year when it appears in the middle of a sentence. Friday, November 30, 1991, was my graduation day.

When to put a comma after a participial phrase?

If the participial phrase is before the main clause, put the comma after the participial phrase. If the participial phrase is in the middle of the sentence , the participial phrase requires a comma before and after it. If the participial phrase is after the main clause, put a comma before the participial phrase.