a symbol, used in writing to separate parts of a sentence showing a slight pause, or to separate the single things in a list
1. Use a comma to separate independent clauses
- You should use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two complete ideas (independent clauses).
example:
1. Mary and I went to the pet shop, and she bought two dogs.
2. I need to do my homework, but I also have to wash the dishes.
- If the second grouping of words isn’t a complete thought (-> if you do not have a subject and a verb in both clauses), do not use a comma.
example:
3. You could go to the gym and afterwards to the party.
4. He tried to eat a cockroach but could not do it.
f(or)a(nd)n(or)b(ut)o(r)y(et)s(o)
- Jeffrey lost his keys so he could not get into his house.
- Her best friend freaked out and she was not able to calm her down.
- My boyfriend wants to travel the world but I would rather stay at home.
- I enjoy sitting in the garden and reading.
2. Use a comma to set off nonrestrictive clauses
- You should use a comma to enclose clauses which are not essential to the meaning of a sentence. These nonessential clauses are called nonrestrictive. Clauses which are essential are called restrictive.
example:
1. My brother, who is a very lazy boy, watches television all day.
2. The puppy, which is very cute, sleeps a lot.
3. The girl who holds the basketball is my best friend.
- The astronaut who first stepped on the moon was Neil Armstrong
- My mum who is the loveliest person I know is angry at the moment.
- The horse which is black is a very furious one.
- The favourite colour of Anton who is my best friend is blue.
