Section outline

  • Comma is the shortest pause in the sentence.

    Features:

    1. It is used to separate words or statements within a sentence to give a clear meaning.
    2. It never comes at the end of the sentence.

    It is used to separate:

    1. Words, phrases & pairs of words in a sentence.

    Example:

    I had bread & butter, cake & cookies, fruits & omelet for breakfast.

    2. Words in a series.

    Example:

    I bought some apples, oranges, bananas & grapes.

    3. A direct speech.

    Example: 

    Sam said, 'I will pay the bill.'

    4. The date, month & year.

    Example: May 5, 2024.

    5. Words like 'yes, no, of course, however, in fact, etc.' from the rest of the sentence.

    Examples:

    • Yes, I will come tonight.
    • In fact, the event is tomorrow.
    6. Question tags.

    Example: 

    She is happy, isn't she?

    7. Details of address, salutation & complementary closure in a letter.

    Example:  Flat no. 44, Building no. 4,

             Andheri East, Mumbai.

    8. Word or group of words in apposition.

    Example: 

    Miss Mary, my class teacher, is a very well versed with English.