Comma Splice – Rules, Examples & Practice Sheet

In the realm of academic writing, the correct placement of commas plays a pivotal role in ensuring coherence and clarity. It serves as the roadmap for readers, guiding them through the complexities of language with ease. However, one common mistake often goes unnoticed: the comma splice, a subtle yet significant error. In this article, we will shed light on where it might be used and how it can be fixed.

Definition: Comma splice

A comma splice, also called a comma fault, is a type of run-on sentence and grammatical error, that occurs when two independent clauses are joined together by a comma without a coordinating conjunction. Each independent clause, having its own subject and predicate, is capable of standing alone as a complete sentence. The misuse of a comma in this way disrupts sentence clarity and flow, as the comma alone is insufficient for properly connecting two independent sentences. This punctuation error highlights the importance of correctly using conjunctions and punctuation to maintain coherence and readability in writing.

While they are rare in most published writing, they are surprisingly common among inexperienced writers of English. “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White offers guidance on how to avoid them. This Style Guide advises using a semicolon, rather than a comma, to join two grammatically complete clauses.

Where to use a comma splice

Generally speaking, it is advised to avoid comma splices in formal writing because they are considered punctuation errors. However, in creative or informal writing, comma splices may be used deliberately for stylistic purposes, such as to convey a particular tone, rhythm, or to mimic the flow of thought or speech. For example, an author might use a comma splice to create a sense of urgency or excitement. Despite these stylistic uses, it is important to understand that comma splices can potentially confuse readers or be considered mistakes in contexts that value grammatical precision. Therefore, their use should be intentional and with awareness of the audience’s expectations.

Informal writing

In informal writing, comma splices may be employed to mimic the flow of spoken language or convey a sense of informality and fluidity. They can be used to create a casual tone, as in text messages or informal chats.

In this context, comma splices are used for brevity and speed.

In short, similar phrases

Some authors use comma splices to separate short and similar sentences for stylistic reasons to create a specific effect in the writing, as you can see below:

In this case, the comma splice is used to create a rapid and rhythmic flow and to emphasize parallel actions. It is a stylistic device in the sense that the writer is intentionally using a comma splice to achieve a particular effect, such as conveying a sense of coordination and rhythm concisely.

Creative writing (i.e., poetry)

In the world of poetry and creative writing, comma splices are used to achieve specific artistic effects and contribute to the overall style of the text.

Here, the comma splice is used to create a sense of continuity and perpetuity in describing the city. The author of this sentence suggests that the city’s characteristics are connected and never-ending, which helps create a perfect atmosphere and mood for the creative piece. This rhetorical device is known as asyndeton.

When not to use comma splice

A comma splice is generally considered a grammatical error in standard written English, and it is advised to be avoided in formal writing. While they are rare in most published writing, they are surprisingly common among inexperienced writers of English.

Formal writing

In academic papers, such as dissertations, research papers, or theses, comma splices are typically discouraged. They can be considered grammatical errors in this context.

In the first sentence the comma splice is incorrectly joining two independent clauses, making it grammatically incorrect for formal writing.

Complex sentences

In complex sentences with a dependent clause, it is better to use punctuation appropriately, such as semicolons or conjunctions.

In the correct sentence, the conjunction “so” is added to properly connect two or more independent clauses within the complex sentence to eliminate the comma splice and ensure clarity in writing.

With conjunctive adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are transitional words or phrases that help you connect ideas and show relationships between clauses. Begin independent clauses with conjunctive adverbs rather than using them to join clauses.

In the corrected sentence, the comma splice is resolved by using the conjunctive adverb “furthermore” to connect the two clauses. This creates a smooth transition between the ideas and eliminates the comma splice.

How to fix a comma splice

Fixing a comma splice involves adjusting the punctuation or structure of the sentence to correctly connect or separate the independent clauses. Below, you’ll find three simple ways to fix a comma splice:

1. Adding a conjunction
2. Using a semicolon
3. Using a full stop

Adding a conjunction to fix a comma splice

Another way to fix a comma splice is by keeping the comma and adding either a coordinating, or a subordinating conjunction to one of the clauses.

Adding a coordinating conjunction

One way to fix a comma splice is to add a coordinating conjunction. The most common conjunctions right after the comma can be remembered with the acronym FANBOYS, which stands for:

• For
• And
• Nor
• But
• Or
• Yet
• So

The correct placement of commas with fanboys will help you improve the clarity and readability of your writing, ensuring that your sentences are well-structured and your ideas effectively communicated.

In this correct sentence, “and” serves as the coordinating conjunction to connect two independent sentences, indicating the relationship as logical and clear. Both sentences can stand alone, as they contain both a subject and a verb.

Adding a subordinating conjunction

Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in resolving comma splices, which occur when a comma incorrectly joins two independent clauses. A subordinating conjunction can help you clarify the relationship between two clauses. Unlike coordinating conjunctions, which distribute equal emphasis to both parts of a new sentence, subordinating conjunctions apply unequal stress to the clauses.

In this example, the subordinating conjunction “because” introduces the reason for being tired while simultaneously fixing the comma splice and creating a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the clauses. Other common subordinating conjunctions include “although,” “since,” “if,” and “while.”

Using a semicolon

If you wish to unite your two ideas within a single sentence instead of separating them, consider replacing the comma with a semicolon instead. When the relationship between two clauses involves a sequence, whether it’s a temporal sequence or a logical sequence, a semicolon is the appropriate punctuation choice to effectively convey this connection.

In this case, the semicolon fixes the comma splice because it provides a stronger and more appropriate link between two independent clauses (complete sentences) that are closely related in meaning.

Using a full stop

The last way to fix a comma splice is by replacing the comma with a full stop and simultaneously creating two separate sentences. This is especially helpful when the ideas within the sentence are not necessarily connected and do not have to be emphasized.

If using a semicolon or adding a conjunction feels too stuffy, make each independent clause a separate sentence. This way, the comma splice will be fixed easily.

Practice sheet

Based on the knowledge you gathered from this article, revise the mistakes in the sentences below. You can find the solutions in the second tab to check whether you got it right!