Why is the Oxford comma so controversial?
The Oxford Comma Debate As far as I can tell, the main argument against using the Oxford comma is that it’s somehow easier to not insert a comma at the end of a list of three or more items. Let’s look at this example: We invited my parents, Thomas and Nancy.
Is the Oxford comma always necessary?
The Oxford comma has been around for centuries, but is entirely optional: the rules of punctuation do not demand its use. Technically it’s never wrong, but it may not always be necessary.
How do you know if a comma is unnecessary?
Do not use a comma to set apart an adverb clause that is essential to the meaning of a sentence or an interjection when the comma would interfere with the sentence. A comma should not be used after although, such as, or like; after a coordinating conjunction; or along with end punctuation inside a quotation.
Do Lawyers use the Oxford comma?
Lawyers should use the Oxford comma to help avoid ambiguity. Three ambiguities may arise without this comma: Whether the two final items in a list are one combined element or separate.
Does Cambridge use Oxford comma?
In its own text, the guide by Cambridge omits serial commas; Oxford’s retains them. So for British English, use serial commas or omit them, but do so consistently. And if you go without, make sure to add a comma wherever its absence might create ambiguity.
Does New York Times use Oxford comma?
(In most cases, The Times stylebook discourages the serial comma, often called the Oxford comma because it was traditionally used by the Oxford University Press.)
What is an unnecessary comma called?
Except after an introductory dependent clause, do not use a comma to separate a dependent clause from a main clause unless the dependent clause provides nonessential information. See also Restrictive and Nonrestrictive Modifiers.
What is misuse of comma?
The misuse of the comma is one of the most common forms of grammatical mistakes that writers commit in their writing pieces. Any major mistake in the comma usage can change the connotation of a word or alter the entire meaning of a sentence.
How does a comma cost a million?
For those of you who don’t believe punctuation matters, here’s a news flash; indeed, it does. In one particular case a comma cost Maine’s Oakhurst Dairy $5 million dollars at the conclusion of a $10 million dollar lawsuit that hinged on overtime pay.
Is the Oxford comma used in AP style?
Use of the Oxford comma is stylistic, meaning that some style guides demand its use while others don’t. AP Style—the style guide that newspaper reporters adhere to—does not require the use of the Oxford comma. The sentence above written in AP style would look like this: Please bring me a pencil, eraser and notebook.
Is Oxford comma right or wrong?
While the Oxford comma is technically grammatically correct, it is most often unnecessary and pointless. Thus, writers and editors should eliminate the comma unless it is absolutely essential for comprehension.
Does the New York Times use the Oxford comma?
What is the comma controversy?
The relatively small-scale dispute gained international notoriety last year when the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit ruled that the missing comma created enough uncertainty to side with the drivers, granting those who love the Oxford comma a chance to run a victory lap across the internet.
What is a superfluous comma?
Except after an introductory dependent clause, do not use a comma to separate a dependent clause from a main clause unless the dependent clause provides nonessential information.
How do you stop a comma overusing?
Usually, in cases like that, in order to avoid comma overuse, the solution is to reword the sentence to make the phrase more direct and decipherable.
What are three common comma errors?
6 Common Comma Usage Mistakes
- Adding A Comma Before “That” In A Clause.
- Not Using a Comma Between Two Independent Clauses That Are Connected By A Coordinating Conjunction.
- Using A Comma Before A Verb In Relative Clause.
- Comma Splice and Run-On Sentence.
- Using A Comma in An Essential Adjective Clause.
What are two situations when a comma is not appropriate?
Some writers omit the comma if the clauses are both quite short: Example: I paint and he writes. Rule 3c. If the subject does not appear in front of the second verb, a comma is generally unnecessary.
How a comma can change the law?
The placement of a comma in a sentence can in fact change its whole meaning. Let’s look at the following example: The defendant, who looked apologetic, was found guilty. The defendant who looked apologetic was found guilty.
What does two commas mean in texting?
A million; millions
(slang) A million; millions. noun. 1.