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Jayadds Posted 14 years ago
Grammar
Confused about the use of comma before "but"
Hi,
I've always been taught that a comma should only be used before "but" if there are two independent clauses. Here's an example: John is ready for this evening's performance, but he feels that he still needs more practice.
However, I've been seeing almost everywhere (including online articles and books) where a comma is used before "but" even when it introduces a dependent clause. Here's an example: John is ready for this evening's performance, but feels that he still needs more practice.
I know that they are not ideal examples, but I'm sure you know what I mean by them. So, what is the definitive rule with the comma before "but"? Should it be used before a dependent clause as well or not?
Many thanks,
Jay
I've always been taught that a comma should only be used before "but" if there are two independent clauses. Here's an example: John is ready for this evening's performance, but he feels that he still needs more practice.
However, I've been seeing almost everywhere (including online articles and books) where a comma is used before "but" even when it introduces a dependent clause. Here's an example: John is ready for this evening's performance, but feels that he still needs more practice.
I know that they are not ideal examples, but I'm sure you know what I mean by them. So, what is the definitive rule with the comma before "but"? Should it be used before a dependent clause as well or not?
Many thanks,
Jay
Top answer
John is ready for this evening's performance, but he feels that he still needs more practice. John is ready for this evening's performance, but feels that he still needs more practice. The above sentence is just a shortened form of the first sentence, omitting the "he" right after "but".
- John is ready for this evening's performance, but he feels that he still needs more practice.
- John is ready for this evening's performance, but feels that he still needs more practice.
- The above sentence is just a shortened form of the first sentence, omitting the "he" right after "but".
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1 Answers
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John is ready for this evening's performance, but he feels that he still needs more practice.
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