comma splices
Fused independent clauses
Comma splices are sentences incorrectly joined by only a comma where a period, semicolon, or conjunction is needed: I went to the store, I bought milk instead of I went to the store; I bought milk.
Considered a grammatical error in formal writing, though common in casual prose and sometimes used deliberately for rhythm or speed.
- punctuationWritten clarity symbols
- independent clauseSelf-sufficient grammatical unit
- conjunctionWord joining clauses together
- run-on sentenceClauses joined without punctuation
- grammarLanguage's structural rules
grammar rules · clause · semicolon · sentence structure · writing · error · run-on · mistake · red ink · dangling participles · period · compound sentence · proofreading · double negatives · Strunk and White · editing · phrase · style guides
comma splicessemicolons
Marks joining related sentences
periods · full stops · hard stops · colons
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