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Snarf Posted 13 years ago
Grammar

Like Commas

Please have a look at these two examples:

1. I didn't put any ideas in her head back then, like I did with you.

2. They didn't have everything that they required, like the rest of you had.

Are those commas before "like" necessary for the pauses, or are they optional? Is there a natural pause in both examples that makes the commas unnecessary?

Thanks.
  

Top answer

Snarf Is there a natural pause in both examples that makes the commas unnecessary? You have the guideline confused. Optional commas in sentences are those that mark spoken pauses.

— Mister Micawber

  • Snarf Is there a natural pause in both examples that makes the commas unnecessary?
  • You have the guideline confused.
  • Optional commas in sentences are those that mark spoken pauses.
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3 Answers
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SnarfIs there a natural pause in both examples that makes the commas unnecessary?
You have the guideline confused. Optional commas in sentences are those that mark spoken pauses.
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Okay, so if I feel a pause with the speaker, I put those commas, and if I feel no pause, then I don't? I definitely feel the pauses, so I guess I'll put them. I was just concerned that it was either excessive if I put them or simply awkward if I didn't.
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Snarf I definitely feel the pauses, so I guess I'll put them
I think I would, too.
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