Use of the comma

Content

• What are the uses of the comma?
• Examples of uses of the comma

The eat (,) has as its main function to indicate that the reading should pause: its function when reading aloud (where the pauses will be necessary for a rhythmic reason and to avoid inconsistencies) is indistinct than in the reading in a low voice (where the words are simply arranged with these signs).

The need for commas, however, occurs only on certain occasions, so it cannot be said that it simply has a rhythmic function: rather, the sound function is subject to the need to include it in certain situations, in such a way as to make more harmonious reading.

• It can serve you: Sentences that take comma

What are the uses of the comma?

The comma is usually found in enumerations: it works as analogous to the 'y' connector for when terms are being added, or analogous to the 'o' connector when the terms that are conjugated form part of an opposition.

It is important to consider that the comma is only used when the opposition is between more than two alternatives, because if it were between two, one would be limited to saying 'or' or 'and' among the options: even when there are more than two, before mentioning at the last, the connector is also usually made explicit.

But there are other uses beyond the additive or oppositional enumeration. When a sequence of events is presented, for example, each event is usually mentioned separated by a comma, so that the reader perceives the passage of time in those pauses.

In addition, commas are present initiating and closing the so-called appositions: pauses in the text in order to make some clarification that does not correspond to the central or sequential aspect of what is being spoken.

Examples of uses of the comma

The following list will include twenty examples of sentences in which the comma appears, so that the different areas of its use are illustrated.

1. Sequence of events
   • They packed their bags, opened the door, and before they knew it they were on the journey.
   • If you don't have blue paint, go to the paint house, buy a blue and a white bucket, and bring them here immediately.
   • They asked if anyone had seen your phone, but no one answered.
   • After the party was suspended, we decided to go to a bar and get drunk anyway.
   • The pilot takes off, while the flight attendant asks for the seat belts to be adjusted.
2. Enumeration
   • They would need to bring plates, cutlery, soda and wine.
   • Exam dates are in March, August and December.
   • Sofía, Laura, Irene and Beatriz met like every Saturday.
   • There will be raffles, raffles, lots of food, and old friends we haven't seen in a long time.
   • 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
3. Apposition
   • The morning, meanwhile, was beginning to appear with the bright sunrise.
   • The result of battles, says an African proverb, is only transmitted by those who win them.
   • The musician, who died last week of a heart attack, was veiled in his own village cemetery.
   • Sergio, the oldest of my brothers that you did not know, also has a plant of that type.
   • The footballer, exhausted, took time to talk to the press and tell his feelings.
   • Sonia, the employee at my grandfather's studio, finally managed to retire.
4. Other uses of the comma
   • Although it may seem incredible, the plane is the safest means of transport.
   • Since I was little with sports I was very talented; with women, much less.
   • I hope, Diego, that you have done your part of the work as you promised on Friday.
   • Understand me, I've been like this for years and I don't want to stay the same.
   • No, I won't be able to go shopping with you this week.

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