Comma Usage Flashcard

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What is a parenthetical expression?

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

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How do you correctly use commas with parenthetical expressions?

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Commas should be placed before and after the parenthetical expression. For example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.'

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What is an introductory phrase?

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An introductory phrase is a group of words that provides context or background information for the main part of the sentence. It is often followed by a comma.

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How do you use commas after an introductory phrase?

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A comma should be placed after the introductory phrase to separate it from the main clause. For example: 'After dinner, we went for a walk.'

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What is a series in writing?

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A series is a list of three or more items, phrases, or clauses that are similar in structure.

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How do you correctly use commas in a series?

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Commas should be used to separate items in a series. For example: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'

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What is an appositive phrase?

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An appositive phrase is a noun or noun phrase that renames or provides additional information about another noun.

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How do you use commas with appositive phrases?

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Commas should be placed before and after the appositive phrase if it is non-restrictive (not essential to the meaning of the sentence). For example: 'My brother, a doctor, is visiting us.'

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What are coordinate adjectives?

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Coordinate adjectives are two or more adjectives that equally modify a noun and are separated by commas.

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How do you use commas to separate multiple adjectives?

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Commas should be used to separate coordinate adjectives. For example: 'She wore a beautiful, long, red dress.'