Comma splices are also acceptable in fiction. In dialogue and first-person narration, for example, a character might be excited or upset and thus speak in a rush. The minimal pause conveyed by a comma can clarify sentence structure while conveying the character’s state of mind.

What is the comma splice rule?

A comma splice is the unjustifiable use of only a comma to combine two separate sentences. (One should use either a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction and a comma to separate the two statements.) Comma splice: Wearing a seatbelt is not just a good idea, it’s the law.

What is an example of a comma splice?

A comma splice error occurs when sentences or independent clauses are improperly connected by a comma alone. Examples of Comma Splice Errors: The clouds were dark, we thought it would rain. I bought a coat, however, it did not fit.

Are comma splices always wrong?

They remain standard for informal writing, especially when short, closely connected clauses are being spliced. There is nothing inherently wrong with a comma splice, although when overused or used by a tin-eared writer, they can sound like run-ons.

Do authors use comma splices?

In literature



Some authors use commas to separate short clauses only. The comma splice is more commonly found in works from the 18th and 19th century, when written prose mimicked speech more closely.

Why are comma splices a problem?

While it’s grammatically correct to link an independent clause and dependent clause with a comma, joining two independent clauses with a comma without placing a conjunction, or joining word, between them is an example of incorrect grammar.

What are the 5 rules to fix a run-on sentence?

Five Ways to Fix a Run-on or Comma Splice

• Add a period and a capital letter. Add a period and a capital letter to separate the sentences. …
• Add a comma and a coordinating conjunction. Add a comma and a coordinating conjunction. …
• Add a semicolon. …
• Add a “transitional word” …
• Add a subordinating conjunction.

How do you avoid a comma splice?

Combining Clauses to Avoid Comma Splices, Run-ons, and Fragments

1. OPTION 1:Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction.
2. OPTION 2: Use a semicolon.
3. OPTION 3: Use a semicolon, transition word, and comma.
4. OPTION 1: Use a subordinating conjunction after the independent clause.

Does Grammarly check for comma splices?

Does Grammarly check for comma splice errors? Yes, Grammarly checks for comma splice error, independent clauses, fragments, and run-on sentences. Apart from these, Grammarly also checks for over 400 types of grammatical mistakes in its premium version.

What is a comma and examples?

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.

What is a comma splice quizlet?

what is a comma splice? Comma splices are similar to run-on sentences because they also incorrectly connect independent clauses. A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are connected with only a comma. As with a run-on sentence, there are a few different ways to correct a comma splice.

What is an example of a run-on sentence?

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (also known as complete sentences) are connected improperly. Example: I love to write papers I would write one every day if I had the time. There are two complete sentences in the above example: Sentence 1: I love to write papers.

What is comma splice and run-on sentences?

Comma splices and run-ons are major sentence errors that interfere with efficient transmission of thought from writer to reader. A comma splice occurs when only a comma separates two independent sentences. A run-on (or fused sentence) occurs when no punctuation at all separates independent sentences.

What are 3 types of run on sentences?

Three types of run-sentences are a fused sentence, comma splice, and polysyndeton. A fused sentence is two independent clauses joined together without proper punctuation. A comma splice is two independent clauses joined together by a comma.

How do you avoid a comma splice?

Combining Clauses to Avoid Comma Splices, Run-ons, and Fragments

1. OPTION 1:Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction.
2. OPTION 2: Use a semicolon.
3. OPTION 3: Use a semicolon, transition word, and comma.
4. OPTION 1: Use a subordinating conjunction after the independent clause.