Commas with direct addresses, introductory words, interjections, interrupters and antithetical phrases

Key Notes:

  • Definition: A direct address occurs when a speaker directly speaks to someone or something.
  • Usage: Place a comma before and after the name or title of the person being addressed.
    • Example: “Can you help me, Sarah?”

  • Definition: Introductory words are words or phrases that set the stage for the main part of a sentence.
  • Usage: Use a comma after an introductory word or phrase to separate it from the main clause.
    • Example: “Well, I think we should start now.”
    • Example: “After dinner, we will go for a walk.”

  • Definition: Interjections are words that express strong emotions or sudden bursts of feeling.
  • Usage: Use a comma to separate an interjection from the rest of the sentence.
    • Example: “Wow, that’s amazing!”

  • Definition: Interrupters are words or phrases that break the flow of a sentence and provide additional information.
  • Usage: Use commas before and after the interrupter to indicate that it can be removed without changing the sentence’s meaning.
    • Example: “The book, in my opinion, is fantastic.”
    • Example: “Your brother, however, is not here.”

  • Definition: Antithetical phrases express contrasting ideas within a sentence.
  • Usage: Use a comma before an antithetical phrase, especially when it follows the main clause.
    • Example: “She loves reading, but he prefers watching movies.”
    • Example: “I enjoy summer, yet I appreciate winter’s beauty.”

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