Comma interrupters 1

Front

What is a comma interrupter?

Back

A comma interrupter is a phrase or clause that adds information to a sentence but can be removed without changing the sentence's fundamental meaning. It is usually set off by commas.

Front

When should commas be used with interrupters?

Back

Commas should be used before and after interrupters to indicate that the information is additional and not essential to the main point of the sentence.

Front

Example of a sentence with a comma interrupter.

Back

"The car, which was red, sped past us." Here, "which was red" is the interrupter.

Front

What is the correct punctuation for the sentence: 'My brother who lives in New York is visiting.'?

Back

The correct version is: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting.' The clause is non-restrictive and needs commas.

Front

What is a non-restrictive clause?

Back

A non-restrictive clause provides additional information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence and is set off by commas.

Front

What is a restrictive clause?

Back

A restrictive clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies and is not set off by commas.

Front

How do you punctuate the phrase 'for example' in a sentence?

Back

The phrase 'for example' should be set off by commas when it interrupts the flow of the sentence.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'The book that I borrowed is on the table.'

Back

The correct version is: 'The book, that I borrowed, is on the table.' (if 'that I borrowed' is non-restrictive).

Front

What is the purpose of using commas in direct address?

Back

Commas are used in direct address to separate the name or title of the person being spoken to from the rest of the sentence.

Front

Example of direct address with correct punctuation.

Back

"Can you help me, Sarah?" Here, 'Sarah' is the person being addressed and is set off by a comma.