Question about proper nouns and commas.

DaithyWhy is that?

It's clearly because many people think that there is no good reason to separate "Hey" and "Thomas" with a comma, and I agree with them!

CliveBe aware that there is a lot of poor English on the internet.

Are you saying there should be a comma there? What would be the purpose of such a comma?

Basically, I am still confused .

Are you saying there should be a comma there? What would be the purpose of such a comma?

I was just speaking very generally.

As regards a comma after 'Hey', I would say it depends on whether the writer would pause briefly there if speaking those words aloud. Some people would, some people wouldn't.

DaithyBasically, I am still confused .

Don't be. Whether you put or don't put a comma in a very informal phrase like that is not important. Do what you want.

Thanks guys. I was only following the rule when proper nouns are addressed directly, they have to be set-off by commas.

DaithyI was only following the rule when proper nouns are addressed directly, they have to be set-off by commas.

Your sentence is a good example of the fact that things are often shades of grey, rather than only black and white.
You mentioned "addressed directly", but one can say that the presence of "Hey" means that there is no direct addressing o

Thank you. However, if I choose "Hey, Thomas, do..." it isn't wrong, right?

Daithy However, if I choose "Hey, Thomas, do..." it isn't wrong, right?

I can't tell you it's wrong, just that I wouldn't do it.