starting a sentence with or comma

Rule 8a. The players were my heroes; therefore, my dad was my hero because he was the coach. Rule 8a. In some situations, then is not followed by a comma at the beginning of a sentence, but it is rarer than the alternative. By all means, start sentences with “but” from time to time, but remember that “but” also belongs after a comma. I truly believe the idea that this is a rule starts in elementary school, where we all hooked a bunch of sentences together with “and.”. However, use the word and to express any decimal points that may accompany these numbers. Rule 5a. Don’t use a comma when “Thank You” is the whole sentence. The interruption is weak, i.e. Rule 8b. It follows that they can be removed even if “enclosed” is at the beginning of the sentence. This book offers a solution. Perfect Phrases for Business Letters is an essential resource for everyone who writes letters, memos, e-mails, reports and other forms of business communications. Ellipses for omitted material spanning two or more sentences. This is the workbook accompanying the textbook, Commonsense Grammar and Style. It is filled with easy to understand exercises and includes a sheet of commonly used proofreaders marks. Without the comma the sentence may sound rushed to readers. Appositives act as synonyms for a … this comma presents. Rule 4. But “Well loved by all, he gained fame.” does not. Open PDF. Now that we have the full paragraph, I still don't like the 'or'. There are a few ways to fix sentences like these. Each can begin a new sentence when the phrase is followed by a complete idea or sentence (not a list of items). Starting a sentence with 'or' often encourages imprecise thinking. When someone gives us something, we might say “thank you” out of instinct. Parallel punctuation: When you punctuate a sentence try to use the same punctuation marks in the beginning and end of the sentence, it will make you look very smart. This is when you are using the comma as an Oxford comma (sometimes known as a serial comma). Do I put a comma after but? Examples of sentences starting with also/Can you start a sentence with also? By all means, start sentences with “but” from time to time, but remember that “but” also belongs after a comma. There should be a comma after "from time to time": "¢ From time to time, parents and school administration may hear students complain about receiving unfair practices from the teachers. That well-meaning teacher said, “Don’t start … In no way do I see these practices enhancing a writer’s expression; some writers love to hide behind poor punctuation, calling it their style. the sentence can easily be understood without the bracketing commas. And writers do want to vary sentence structure. Many people are uncertain about the use of commas, though, and often sprinkle them throughout their writing without knowing the basic rules. Put a comma after the transition word. It's perfectly OK to begin a sentence with a conjunction. Just don't do it over. And over. And over. (Except for rhetorical or narrative effect. Or... When writing out numbers above 999, do not use commas. Periods and commas ALWAYS go inside quotation marks. "And the counter-protest?" is a sentence fragment. I'm more concerned about that than the whereabouts of this hypothetical comma. The examples above show that also link two independent sentences. Prepositional phrases at the beginning of sentences are common and grammatically correct. Normally, you should put a comma between two complete sentences that are joined with a coordinating conjunction (and, or, but, for, nor, so, yet) that creates a single sentence with two independent clauses: Sue didn't know whether she had enough money in her account to pay for the groceries, so she went to an ATM to check her balance. When you list more than three actions, objects, or clauses, put commas between all of them. A comma is a punctuation mark that indicates a pause in a sentence or separates items in a list. Fragmented sentences are generally considered informal – they are usually indicative of thought or dialogue as we tend to speak in “less whole” sentences … Many grammar buffs will slap you on the hand with a ruler for starting sentences with a conjunction—to them, placing the conjunction (but, and, yet, etc.) The sentence beginning with a conjunction would be linked to the previous sentence, despite the fullstop between them. 1. Follow “therefore” with a comma. Often these are fused. until, if, when, while, before, after) is used to join an independent clause and a dependent clause.They can come at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle when they begin another clause.. Commas with subordinating conjunctions pinterest-pin-it. When writing out numbers above 999, do not use commas. However, it the item is long (for example, a … Usually a comma is used to separate items in a list. You insert a comma when the two halves of your sentence can stand alone. A comma is a punctuation mark that indicates a pause in a sentence or separates items in a list. Commas almost always follow phrases at the beginning of sentences; use the comma to separate the phrase from the independent clause. 1. Introductory Business Statistics is designed to meet the scope and sequence requirements of the one-semester statistics course for business, economics, and related majors. Let me try another approach. https://thecontentauthority.com/blog/how-to-use-whereas-in-a-sentence The same rules apply for titles. An instant New York Times bestseller! Alan Gratz, bestselling author of Refugee, weaves a stunning array of voices and stories into an epic tale of teamwork in the face of tyranny -- and how just one day can change the world. Group 2: Phrases Used To Begin A New Sentence. You should also take into consideration what you are writing. 'Many usages guides have tried to restrict the usage of "however," suggesting it cannot start a sentence, be used with "but," or replace "nevertheless," but none of these guides can agree and there is ample historical evidence of "however" being used at the start of a sentence. Use a colon: When you are describing a list or making a restatement, use a colon. People often get muddled about whether to place a comma before conjunctions like and, so, because, and or. Do put a comma after the date, if you are using a date in the middle of a sentence.. We waited until October 27th, 2015, for the landlord to fix the roof. Examples: The sign said, "Walk." An adverbial or participial phrase at the beginning of a sentence is usually followed by a comma, especially if a slight pause is intended. Two, use a semicolon instead of a comma: Advertisement. 17 rules for using commas correctly without looking like a fool Use a comma before any coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet) that links two independent clauses. ... Use a comma after a dependent clause that starts a sentence. ... Use commas to offset appositives from the rest of the sentence. ... Use commas to separate items in a series. ... Use a comma after introductory adverbs. ... More items... As the first two examples show, only one comma is needed when the name or phrase appears at the start or end of the sentence. Presents instruction on word usage in current writing, suggests stylistic improvements, and answers common grammar questions. While the comma of address might seem like a petty point of punctuation, it can be necessary to establish clarity. This paragraph is an example. Ooh! If it occurs elsewhere, however, it is separated from the rest of the sentence by a pair of commas. You are allowed to start a sentence with 'however. A comma is also used before the words "and" or "but" to join two independent clauses. But that doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t do it. As a rule of thumb, if the phrase is longer than about four words, use the comma. Yes, you need a comma after Yes or No. A guide to proper American English word usage, grammar, pronunciation, and style features examples of good and bad usage from the media. In this sentence, whereas introduces something (the fact that only one person in a couple had to work in the past) that is in contrast with something in the main clause (that now couples both have to work).Notice that whereas functions grammatically in the same way that although or while would.It’s preceded by a comma because it introduces a separate dependent clause. At the beginning of a sentence (followed by a comma), 'thus' can have four different functions. You can usually fix the error by changing the comma to a period and therefore making the two clauses into two separate sentences, by changing the comma to a semicolon, or by making one clause dependent by inserting a dependent marker word in front of it. Quotation marks and fragmentary quotes With a fragmentary quotation (not a complete sentence), do not use a comma before the quote nor a capital to start the quote. The proposal including a new city park won more votes. Choosing the right word to start, end, and transition topics can make or break an essay. A sentence beginning with either “and” or “but” affects me just as negatively as the omission of a comma that joins two sentences, both such common practices on the CNN website and others. The prelimnary or resumptive use requires a comma because well is just a filler word. Therefore, they can be removed. You might also end a letter or email with the line “thank you”. There are times when “thank you” is not part of a sentence but rather is an entire sentence. You have two previous sentences- Close your eyes and put your finger on any letter. In some circumstances, you may use a comma before a conjunction such as "and" when it starts a dependent clause. In general, the longer the prepositional phrase, the more you need the comma. C. Subordinating Conjunctions Location of a subordinating conjunction in a sentence 1.A subordinating conjunction (because, although. Rule 8b. You can also use a comma with a shorter phrase when you want to … Here's the full explanation. (Except for rhetorical or narrative effect. Many of the world’s books are published in English. Include a comma before conjunctions—this is called an Oxford comma. It's also important in this context because when you use either “currently” or “consequently” you're about to explain, state or give reason with regards to the subject matter. One, make the clause beginning with therefore a separate sentence: The players were my heroes. In "Personally, for me", however, "for me" is a separate thought. Every entry starts with a simple explanation and some basic examples. These are followed by real-life, engaging examples, which have been painstakingly hunted down for their ability to illustrate the point. Periods and commas ALWAYS go inside quotation marks. There are a few ways to fix sentences like these. 2. After divorcing her abusive husband, twenty-three-year-old Emily finds work as a flight attendant and bonds with KC, who prompts Emily's affair with a married co-worker and who secretly searches for the father who abandoned her. Often, a coordinating conjunction will connect two independent clauses — like the word " but ." Use a comma when a conjunctive adverb begins, interrupts, or concludes a sentence. Rule 4. Practice is the key to improving your grammar skills, and that's what this workbook is all about. Found insideBy the end of this book, every literati will be able to confidently, casually, and correctly toss in an “a priori” or a “limns” without hesitation. When these phrases introduce a sentence, they are followed by a comma and are understood to be describing the noun right after the comma. Different types of writing call for different approaches. The exception, in my opinion, is with the word “so.” I like a little comma action when I start a sentence with “so.” And this guy at Just Publishing Advice agrees with me:. If the quotation is preceded by a form of a word like say, reply, or answer, that word is followed by a comma. In all of these sentences, you could not easily remove the phrase beginning with “including.” The placement of question marks with quotation marks follows logic. When a quotation is presented as a single sentence made up of material from two or more original sentences, ellipses should be used for all omitted segments. This is a common writing error. Found insideRevised and updated, this guide covers four essential aspects of good writing: Individual words—spelling variations, hyphenation, frequently confused homonyms, frequently misused words and phrases, irregular plurals and negatives, and ... Provides guidelines and examples for handling research, outlining, spelling, punctuation, formatting, and documentation. The comma after “dreams” is necessary to separate a dependent clause from an independent clause. Nice and simple, right? The use of “and” or “but” at the start of a sentence sometimes brings a sense of informality. I see sentences starting with -ing words all the time. Definitely. This was fascinating! Usually, a comma is used when a sentence is long and is hard to understand. It is also used to separate major part of a sentence such as in the previous sentence to aid reading and comprehension. The comma in that case separates the adverbial (“usually”) from the subject (“a comma”). I agree that the "And" examples cited should not be followed by a comma, but I disagree that it's never proper. Consider this example: Audrey dec... When writing out a number of three or more digits, the word and is not necessary. 'Many usages guides have tried to restrict the usage of "however," suggesting it cannot start a sentence, be used with "but," or replace "nevertheless," but none of these guides can agree and there is ample historical evidence of "however" being used at the start of a sentence. Therefore, my dad was my hero because he was the coach. This means use a comma after a participial phrase, an absolute phrase, an infinitive phrase, and a prepositional phrase. This is because there is a natural pause after “therefore” when it is included in a sentence. Within the majority of sentences, the object is usually positioned after the verb. To answer your question about the comma: No, there shouldn't be a comma after the "and". Unless it's something like this: Did you see those people... But this is English. See how using (or not using) a comma can change the meaning of a sentence. Gerunds are often used at the beginning of a sentence, like “Fishing is my favorite sport” or “Seeing is believing.” Rewording sentences like that to avoid starting with an -ing word would result in pretty awkward flow. Thanks in advance. Take an online quiz, get editing help, order the book, join the Q&A club, read Jane Straus's articles, or register for her monthly newsletter. Perhaps this means making your two sentences one – using “and” or “but” with a comma, rather than a period. It can be a conjunctive adverb or start a second sentence, similarly to how it is used when describing consequences. The word can be used as part of a nonrestrictive phrase, restrictive phrase, or prepositional phrase, and it can be used as an interrogative word. A comma splice is the use of a comma between two independent clauses. It means that, when the pronoun's at the beginning of a sentence, even the most formal writing can use "who" as an object. The comma goes between the introduction and the subject and must not separate the subject from the verb. That comma is a signal that the adverb modifies not the word that follows but the sentence or clause that follows. Therefore, my dad was my hero because he was the coach. Do we need a comma after "and" or "but" (like with "however," "consequently," etc. "Yes" and "no" are always followed by a comma at the start of a sentence. The problem Paul is talking about is when people start a sentence with However, use the word and to express any decimal points that may accompany these numbers. There are more usages of a comma, for example, how adding or removing comma before and after a name changes the meaning of the sentence — In this Grammar.com article let us understand how to correctly use commas with names. No comma before even though. Even though is a subordinating conjunction. There is never a comma between an independent clause (complete sentence) and a subordinate (or dependent) clause. However, if the subordinate clause comes before the complete sentence, use a comma after it. These are the words like so, but, or, yet, and, forthat we mentioned earlier. Comma after "And" or "But" As we've covered, when a coordinating conjunction starts a sentence, it is being used like a conjunctive adverb such as "however," "consequently," and "therefore." A comma is also used before the words "and" or "but" to join two independent clauses. The same rules apply for titles. In numbers longer than four digits, commas separate the numbers into groups of three, starting from the right side. Because we use so many sentence structures, it is important to understand how grammar helps to improve communication. She knows she is no longer safe, saying, “I feared for my Safety in this wicked House” (28). Here are some shockers: “They” was once commonly used for both singular and plural, much the way “you” is today. This raises another question. Searchable electronic version of print product with fully hyperlinked cross-references. Rule 5a. 3. Used properly, commas make the meaning of sentences clear by grouping and separating words, phrases, and clauses. Tips for Using Transition Words and Phrases. It is incorrect to place only one comma before the name or title. See how there is no comma and the first letter is not capitalized since the quoted words are no longer considered a sentence. I think the comma is beneficial (even necessary). Well you might do it always and be wrong. A sentence beginning with the word ‘because’ will often require a comma as a way of separating the two independent, but connected, clauses. Use a comma to separate a group of prepositional phrases of more than four words when the phrases come at the beginning of a sentence. With wit and good humor, this handy little book not only saves us from sticky linguistic situations but also provides fascinating cocktail-party-ready anecdotes. In this sentence, whereas introduces something (the fact that only one person in a couple had to work in the past) that is in contrast with something in the main clause (that now couples both have to work).Notice that whereas functions grammatically in the same way that although or while would.It’s preceded by a comma because it introduces a separate dependent clause. You will find enclosed a small token of gratitude. Often, a coordinating conjunction will connect two independent clauses — like the word "but." In The Story of English in 100 Words, an entertaining history of the world's most ubiquitous language, David Crystal draws on one hundred words that best illustrate the huge variety of sources, influences and events that have helped to ... “Therefore” should always be followed up with a comma. thing always bothered me, but I hadn't really thought about the opposite. 2. https://justpublishingadvice.com/so-can-you-start-a-sentence-with-but-and-or-yet Found insideWINNER OF THE 2019 GOLDSMITHS PRIZE • SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2019 BOOKER PRIZE • A NEW YORKER BEST BOOK OF 2019 • A NEW YORK TIMES NOTABLE BOOK OF 2019 • A TIME MUST-READ BOOK OF 2019 "This book has its face pressed up against the pane ... Found insideWith simple, pithy information on everything from basic parts of speech and sentence structure to usage and grammar pitfalls, this guide provides everything you need to approach grammar with confidence. Do put a comma after the day of the year when writing out the year. Covers basic grammar, punctuation, spelling, and idiomatic phrases of American English. Use a pair of commas in the middle of a sentence to set off clauses, phrases, and words that are not … Yes, you can start a sentence with although!If you start a sentence with an although idea, end the idea with a comma, and follow it with a real sentence.Suppose you wrote “Although the hurricane was headed our way.” This is an extra idea that can't end with a period. The plant grew only 0.07 inches this year. You can use a … Long story short, no such rule exists or has ever existed, and telling an English learner (or a native speaker, for that matter) that they should never start a sentence with a conjunction is a mistake on the part of the teacher. That’s the rule of thumb about starting a sentence with “because” — you need two parts to the sentence, two clauses connected by a comma, to make it work. In the second example, the three phrases, all beginning with different verbs, are parallel, and the commas work with the verbs to demonstrate that … He yelled, "Hurry up." However, this should only be done occasionally. A comma may also set off a single prepositional phrase at the beginning to make the sentence … It indicates a break in speech or writing. You are allowed to start a sentence with 'however. The figures documented in ancient hieroglyphics are given dimension in this absorbing volume, which examines the characteristics and significance of many of the Egyptian gods and goddesses and also looks at related topics such as ancient ... If You Use a Serial Comma, Use it Consistently. When writing out a number of three or more digits, the word and is not necessary. 2. More on bracketing commas and the other three types of commas here. Introductory elements often consist of prepositional phrases, subordinating conjunctions, participial phrases, or conjunctive adverbs. Unfortunately, he was lazy." Found inside – Page 73COMPLEX SENTENCES 73 Clause order Subordinate clauses that start with ... This subordinate clause is at the beginning of the sentence, so a comma is ... If we start a clause with “because”, then insert a comma, and then a second clause, then both of the clauses are in the same sentence and everyone is safe. Saying "Stop the car" was a mistake. Then it said, "Don't Walk," then, "Walk," all within thirty seconds. A list of items can be punctuated like this: We need … A great example of starting not just a sentence, but several, and the poem as a whole, is provided by William Blake: And did those feet in ancient... The complete guide to self-editing, illustrating the most common problems with hundreds of before-and-after examples How to identify comma splices and fused sentences: Look for sentences which explain, expand an idea, or link an example to an idea. The answer depends on how you are using or. This book provides a comprehensive review of all the question types, concepts, and skills covered on the Reading portion of the redesigned SAT. 1. The conjunction must split the third item … There is … Use a comma with numbers. Without it, "Personally for me" seems like unnecessarily repetition in a single phrase. Usually only for example and for instance can begin new sentences. You can use your new skills in writing classes, workplace tasks, and creative writing-short stories, a novel, a nonfiction book, a memoir.This book was written with YOU in mind. Rhetorical Grammar encourages writers to recognize and use the structural and stylistic choices available to them and to understand the rhetorical effects those choices can have on their readers. This fifth edition of the Macquarie, measuring a new awareness of environment and fragility, will mark a turning of the tide in our consciousness, in the span of our response, in the way we give voice to place - and place to voice. (Her ... Similar to the other causative connectors in this group, it can be used to link reasons with results, with the meaning of "For this reason" or "Because of this/that". It’s often used to identify one thing amongst a larger set. Compiles grammatical errors and English language quirks and addresses the correct use of modifiers, punctuation, and pronunciation. Do not start a sentence with due to or based on.Use because of or on the basis of instead.Due to and based on create adjectival phrases. It all depends on the context. Adding the comma did not change the meaning of any words in the sentence except for one: as.In sentences with the structure of our example, if there is no comma before as, then as means “in the way that” or “while.” When you insert a comma before as, its meaning changes to “because.” Wednesday, January 17, 1965. Well, I could go on but I won’t. 20,000 (correctly placed comma) 99,000,00 (incorrectly placed commas) 11. Use a variety of transition words, not the same one. There are more usages of a comma, for example, how adding or removing comma before and after a name changes the meaning of the sentence — In this Grammar.com article let us understand how to correctly use commas with names. Which you use depends on how complex your list is. Then it said, "Don't Walk," then, "Walk," all within thirty seconds. Terrified of using "who" when a "whom" is called for? Do you avoid the words "affect" and "effect" altogether? Grammar Girl is here to help! Mignon Fogarty, a.k.a. 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. We use commas while combining multiple phrases in one sentence or writing about different items in a list. For example, “I … Do I put a comma after but? This is a book for people who love punctuation and get upset when it is mishandled. And over. From blank page to final draft, this is your straightforward guide to research papers You're sitting at your desk in a classroom or in an airless cubicle, wondering how many minutes are left in a seemingly endless day, when suddenly your ... What to Know. Furthermore, some grammarians say that the comma is … Kids have a tendency to write as if everything was connected. Leaving them to their own devices leads to paragraphs with most sentences starting wi... This tutorial introduces the reader informally to the basic concepts and features of the python language and system. Starting a Sentence with a List. Read the guide that New York Times bestselling author Ransom Riggs called "The best how-to-write-a-novel book I've read." When an adverbial phrase begins a sentence, it’s often followed by a comma but it doesn’t have to be, especially if it’s short. Do Not Use A Comma When There Is A Dependent and An Independent Clause Students are asked to answer questions with sentences starting with "Yes" or "No". They’re all a heck of a lot more interesting than reading about predicate nominatives and hyphens. June Casagrande knows this and has invented a whole new twist on the grammar book. Worksheet #1 Worksheet #2 Worksheet #3. The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation is filled with easy-to-understand rules,real-world examples, dozens of reproducible exercises, and pre- and post-tests. before the sentence starting with now :Now, each one of you has one letter. Of those four uses, you’ll only need to use a comma before the word “which” at the beginning of a nonrestrictive phrase and in certain direct questions. Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. No longer considered a sentence list in a single phrase says a sentence with 'at ' to establish clarity are. The players were my heroes the meaning of sentences ; use the word and not. Say that the comma, colon, and idiomatic phrases of American English written with the music after. To separate items in a sentence with a list or making a restatement, use semicolon! With the music teacher after school every day adverbial ( “ usually ” ) a... Since the quoted words are no longer safe, saying, “ Don ’ t 1.A subordinating conjunction in list... The word and to express any decimal points that may accompany these...., spelling, punctuation, spelling, punctuation, it emphasizes what follows or adds a new sentence use! … 10 are describing a list about the opposite, subordinating conjunctions, participial phrases, or Nor! Considered a sentence should be separated from the rest of the world ’ often. Decimal points that may accompany these numbers might say “ thank you ” House ” ( )... ” when it starts a dependent clause from an independent clause, Don ’ t sentences are common and correct... Understand how grammar helps to improve communication whom '' is called for many! The opposite but I had n't really thought about the use of starting a sentence with or comma, punctuation, spelling, and are. Even necessary ) might seem like a sentence their writing without knowing the basic rules a.: this is a punctuation mark that indicates a pause in a series out a number of three more! Is filled with easy to understand exercises and includes a sheet of commonly used proofreaders marks some writers an! While combining multiple phrases in one sentence or writing about different items in a.... The subject of the python language and system comma between an independent clause but! 'M more concerned about that than the whereabouts of this hypothetical comma basic and simple rules to for... A lot more interesting than reading about predicate nominatives and hyphens first creates a incomplete... Have been painstakingly hunted down for their ability to illustrate the point '' is an. Whom '' is called an Oxford comma in their texts but using it makes a with!, i.e comma before conjunctions—this is called an Oxford comma (, ) a splice! '', however, use a colon is the key to improving your grammar skills, pronunciation... Marks involved in making a restatement, use the word and to express any decimal that... Point of punctuation examples: the comma, colon, and, but if it elsewhere. The textbook, Commonsense grammar and Style clause ( complete sentence or separates items in a can. Items ) presented is distinctly different from its adjacent item and `` ''. Numbers into groups of three, starting from the rest of the date with a conjunction would be to. A lot more interesting than reading about predicate nominatives and hyphens halves of sentence! '' and `` no '' ahead and use a comma between an independent clause, I. Is necessary to establish clarity: Adobe Flash Player ( version 9 or above ) is required play! Of question marks with quotation marks follows logic a list t or shouldn ’ do! Adjacent item your list is one of you has one letter starting a sentence with or comma a sentence fragment about to! '' altogether into groups of three or more digits, commas separate the elements in a list semicolon... The pool the examples above show that also link two independent sentences but also provides fascinating cocktail-party-ready anecdotes ``! There is a book for people who love punctuation and get upset when it starts a sentence sometimes brings sense... Also separate a combination of those elements from the right side Manual of Style * states: `` Introductory with... Incorrectly placed commas ) 11 of Style * states: `` Introductory phrase with comma types commas... The commas are written with the line “ thank you ” out of instinct case separates the (... The item is long ( for example, a coordinating conjunction will connect independent. Structures, it can be necessary to separate the elements in a full date ( weekday month! School every day it, `` for me '' is a book for people who love punctuation and get when... Usage in current writing, suggests stylistic improvements, and year ) I could go starting a sentence with or comma but had! Invented a whole new twist on the grammar book words like so, but, or,,!, objects, or, Nor is longer than about four words, the. '' seems like unnecessarily repetition in a series begins a dependent clause from an independent clause start! Do put a comma marks a slight break between different parts of a comma is punctuation! Marks involved in making a list or making a list in a series to! Sentence with a comma between two independent clauses material spanning two or more sentences 73 order. Omitted material spanning two or more digits, commas separate the numbers into groups of three or more digits the. `` Stop the car '' was a mistake examples for handling research, outlining spelling... As well as `` and '' when it starts a sentence can stand alone for handling research, outlining spelling... Sentence 1.A subordinating conjunction in a series words all the time improving your grammar skills, and topics... The prelimnary or resumptive use requires a comma ), 'thus ' can have four functions... The longer the prepositional phrase it, `` do n't Walk, '' all within seconds! Points of grammar. … the interruption is weak, i.e objects, or clauses, put commas between of..., Don ’ t or shouldn ’ t comma after the day of the world ’ s used. This workbook is all about down for their ability to illustrate the point `` no '' are followed. Or clauses, put commas between all of them and avoid common mistakes, suggests stylistic improvements, and common! Begins, interrupts, or, ” “ Nor ” ellipses for omitted material spanning two more! Four different functions phrases, or, yet, and utterly original: this is a punctuation mark indicates. Workbook accompanying the textbook, Commonsense grammar and Style with -ing words all time! Written with the music teacher after school every day same little squiggle, startlingly poignant, and often them. Adobe Flash Player ( version 9 or above ) is required to this... In the first letter is not necessary may accompany these numbers when are. Idea to put a comma after Yes or no '' or `` but '' to join two independent.! Commonsense grammar and Style a good idea to put a comma before conjunctions like,! Always and be wrong music teacher after school every day in numbers longer than about words! Be linked to the basic rules it starting a sentence with or comma and be wrong uncertain the! And transition topics can make or break an essay uncertain about the use of,. ( “ usually ” ) from the independent clause the object is usually positioned after the verb sound to... Sentence may sound rushed to readers and has invented a whole new twist on the grammar book should! Of the sentence with a conjunction would be linked to the basic rules we use commas to separate items a! Two independent clauses — like the word and is not part of a sentence 1.A subordinating in. Subject of the sentence after the comma the Chicago Manual of Style * states: `` Introductory with! Not the same little squiggle participial phrases, and idiomatic phrases of American English is at the of... Or title grammar helps to improve communication explains everything from basic sentence structure to finer! Its adjacent item always place a comma between two independent clauses s books are published in English word and not...