Modifiers and compound predicates

Question

With compound predicates, the usual rule is not to have a comma, but should one be inserted before the conjunction when there is a modifier that only applies to the first predicate?

"His character is at least given a bit more personality, and is the best part of the novel."

As "at least" does not apply to what comes after "and," is the use of a comma correct? No article I have read on compound predicates seems to address this.

Englishmaven · Accepted Answer

No comma is necessary. "At least" is not related to the question about the comma. "Is" is repeated because the first "is" is part of the passive verb phrase "is given." The second "is" needs to be stated, not implied, because the second use of "is" is not passive. Without the second "is," the sentence is awkward because another passive structure is anticipated after "and." Parallel structure is lacking. Additionally, another interpretation is present without the second "is." That would create a compound direct object, that the character is given two things: "a bit more personality" and "the best part of the novel." But we understand that the character is not given the best part of the novel; he/she is the best of the novel. So we have to say "is" again to avoid making "personality" and "the best part" direct objects.

We have one subject, "character," and a compound verb ("is given" and "is"), which are only two items connected by "and." A comma is not called for. The real question about the sentence has to do with the use of "is" two times.

JJDouglas · Answer

Would you suggest a rewrite to avoid having "is" appear twice in the sentence?

Englishmaven · Answer

Yes. I would recast the sentence to avoid that.

Modifiers and compound predicates

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