Commas in Phrases and Clauses

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark (,) used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma in a series?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a list. Example: I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

What is an appositive phrase?

Back

An appositive phrase is a noun or noun phrase that renames another noun right beside it. Example: My brother, a skilled musician, plays guitar.

Front

How do you use commas with appositive phrases?

Back

Use commas to set off appositive phrases from the rest of the sentence. Example: My dog, a golden retriever, loves to play.

Front

What is an interruption in a sentence?

Back

An interruption is a word or phrase that adds information but is not essential to the main point of the sentence.

Front

How do you use commas with interruptions?

Back

Use commas to set off interruptions from the rest of the sentence. Example: The movie, surprisingly, was very good.

Front

How many commas are needed in the sentence: 'I need to stop by the store to pick up tortillas grated cheese tomatoes ground beef and jalapenos'?

Back

4 commas are needed to separate the items in the list.

Front

What is the rule for using commas before conjunctions?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') when it connects two independent clauses. Example: I wanted to go, but I was too tired.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Example: I wanted to play outside, but it started to rain.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma to separate a subject from its verb or a verb from its object.