Adjectival Serial Comma Query

Question

I like using the adjectival serial comma, but I try to avoid using it when it makes the writing of thought choppy or awkward. Take these two examples:

1. He obliges his beloved, dark princess.
2. He obliges his dark, beloved princess.

Is the comma in one, more or less necessary than in the other?

Thanks.

Canadian45 · Accepted Answer

SnarfI like using the adjectival serial comma, Why do you like using it? but I try to avoid using it when it makes the writing of thought choppy or awkward. Take these two examples:1. He obliges his beloved, dark princess.2. He obliges his dark, beloved princess.Is the comma in one, more or less necessary than in the other? I think they both are unnecessary.

Snarf · Answer

I like using it because when I read and I see it used, I find that it offers smoother reading (partly because of the pacing), and it is logical since the adjectives aren't describing each other, they're describing a noun, which is why I'm one of those who feels it makes perfect sense to use it. There are rules helping regulate when not to use it, however, like when the last adjective becomes part of the head noun, or when it is traditionally used for emphasizing the adjective right before it.

I know you think they're unnecessary. I remember you saying that you don't use it. I'm inquiring as to what someone who does use it thinks about these two particular instances.

Thanks.

Canadian45 · Answer

SnarfI like using it because when I read and I see it used, I find that it offers smoother reading (partly because of the pacing), What do you mean by pacing? Do you mean that you pause after every comma? and it is logical since the adjectives aren't describing each other, they're describing a noun, That is not relevant. which is why I'm one of those who feels it makes perfect sense to use it. There are rules helping regulate when not to use it, however, like when the last adjective becomes part of the head noun, Then it's not an adjective anymore. or when it is traditionally used for emphasizing the adjective right before it.I know you think they're unnecessary. I remember you saying that you don't use it. I'm inquiring as to what someone who does use it thinks about these two particular instances.Thanks.

All I'm saying is just as we shouldn't use unnecessary words, we also shouldn't use unnecessary punctuation. It's unnecessary and distracting.

Of course, you can do what you want.

Adjectival Serial Comma Query

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