Comma splice

In written English usage, a comma splice or comma fault[1][2] is the use of a comma to join two independent clauses. For example:

It is nearly half past five, we cannot reach town before dark.[a]

The comma splice is sometimes used in literary writing to convey a particular mood of informality. It is usually considered an error in English writing style. Some authorities on English usage consider comma splices appropriate in limited situations, such as informal writing or with short similar phrases.[4][5]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Wilson was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Cite error: The named reference Follett & Wensberg was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ Cite error: The named reference Strunk 1918 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  4. ^ "To Splice or Not to Splice?". The MLA Style Center. 2017-03-28. Retrieved 2020-12-10.
  5. ^ "Comma Splice—Learn How to Avoid It". Grammarly. 2016-09-26. Retrieved 2020-12-10.


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