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20 March 2007

More Punctuation and the Devil


Are there missing commas in the sentences below? What about possessive case? You decide.

With commas and other punctuation remember: "The purpose of punctuation is to ensure the clarity and readability of writing." It should guide a reader's understanding of the writing. MLA Handbook, Fifth Edition, Joseph Gibaldi.

Also remember: "The aim (of clear writing) should be to make construction so tight... (that a) minimum of clarifying punctuation (is needed)." Harper's English Grammar, John B. Opdycke

Comments welcomed.

  • "I'm sorry for disturbing you, but once you see what I have for you, (comma?) (separate the adverbial clause "...once you see..." for clarity) you'll understand."
  • "Of course, but look, (comma?) I was hoping for some sort of cash reward for my troubles." (parenthetical element, clarity)
  • "Get on with it, (comma?) Tony!" (introductory element, clarity)
  • "What do I care about other (peoples or people's ) conversations." (irregular plural nouns not ending in s, add and apostrophe and an s.)
  • "His words (comma?) not mine. I swear." (yes or no, your choice, I suggest no)
  • "You insult me; (commas?) plus, you want a reward for what you did." (conjunctive adverb requires semicolon before and comma after conjunction)