Grammar Anyone?
Don’t splice the commas!
by Ms. Grammar
Who knows how various terms originate. A “comma splice” in English grammar is the joining of two independent clauses with a comma, such as: The release date has changed, we now have two more weeks for development.
In most instances, comma splices should not be used. Some exceptions do exist – for example, comma splices may be acceptable if the clauses are short and alike in form. For a good discussion of exceptions, see Tina Blue’s article, “When is a Comma Splice NOT an Error?”
Following are some solutions for pesky comma splices:
- Make each clause a separate sentence: The release date has changed. We now have two more weeks for development.
- Use a semicolon or dash: The release date has changed; we now have two more weeks for development.
- Use a coordinating conjunction: The release date has changed, and we now have two more weeks for development.
- Make one clause dependent on the other: Because the release date has changed, we now have two more weeks for development.
Test yourself
- The circuit board failed, the system crashed.
- The first step is required, the second step is optional.
- Model A is available, Model B is back-ordered.
- He introduced the new product, it will be released in one month.
- She will submit the draft for review, the test team must test all procedures.
Possible solutions
- When the circuit board failed, the system crashed.
- The first step is required, but the second step is optional.
- Model A is available, Model B is back-ordered. (An acceptable exception - short independent clauses expressing contrast.)
- He introduced the new product. It will be released in one month.
- She will submit the draft for review; the test team must test all procedures.