Commas (Continued)

Unit 2

Unit 2 Commas (Continued) 2 of 8

Unit 2 Commas (Continued)

Items in a Series

Introductory Phrases and Clauses

Conjunctions

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Items in a Series

Commas separate words or phrases listed in a series. When and or or precedes the last word or phrase in a series, a comma is placed before and or or.

– I purchased a rug, a sofa, and a lamp for my new apartment.

– You can contact me by letter, by phone, or by e-mail.

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Tryout Sentences

1. Please complete the application prepare your resume and compile a list of references.

2. My new parrot is young vibrantly colored and very vocal.

3. The shop’s newest ice cream flavors are green tea lychee mango and jasmine.

4. Darnell’s latest additions to his curio cabinet are an antique teapot a crystal decanter and a porcelain vase.

5. Every Saturday a local farmer’s market sells vegetables fruits and pastries.

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Introductory Phrases and Clauses

An introductory phrase or clause is usually followed by a comma.

– Until notified to the contrary, we will cancel your service.

– As the ship left the harbor, the passengers waved from the decks.

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Tryout Sentences

1. Without a reservation you cannot be assured of a room at this hotel.

2. As I crossed the finish line the crowd applauded wildly.

3. Before signing the contract read it very carefully.

4. While Devore was eating dinner she read the newspaper.

5. When you finish the test leave the room quietly.

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Conjunctions

A comma separates two independent clauses that are joined by a conjunction such as and, but, or, and nor. The comma is placed before the conjunction.

– The architect submitted a proposal, but she was not selected for the project.

– Write your name at the top, and wait for further instructions.

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Tryout Sentences

1. The soprano has laryngitis and she cannot go on.

2. I work in the Editorial Department but am requesting a transfer.

3. He made a decision and then changed his mind.

4. Follow the instructions or you will make a mistake.

5. The members approved the amendment and their vote was unanimous.