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X86 Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

Using commas in a series

Hi, I'm not sure about using commas correctly in a series. For example, consider the sentence below:

I went to the store to purchase some apples, oranges, and pears.

My question is this: should there be a comma right before the and at the end of the series?

Thanks in advance!
  

Top answer

Hi X86, I don't think there is a consensus on the serial comma issue. But here's a quote that you may find interesting: "Tell the metaphor-happy student that commas are like dividers between ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise; fences between dogs, cats, and chickens; or borders between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. Without them, messes result.

— Julielai

  • Hi X86, I don't think there is a consensus on the serial comma issue.
  • But here's a quote that you may find interesting: "Tell the metaphor-happy student that commas are like dividers between ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise; fences between dogs, cats, and chickens; or borders between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon.
  • Without them, messes result.
  • )
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3 Answers
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Hi X86,

I don't think there is a consensus on the serial comma issue. But here's a quote that you may find interesting:

"Tell the metaphor-happy student that commas are like dividers between ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise; fences between dogs, cats, and chickens; or borders between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. Without them, messes result. (Dodge the fact that messes may result
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JulielaiHi X86,

I don't think there is a consensus on the serial comma issue. But here's a quote that you may find interesting:

"Tell the metaphor-happy student that commas are like dividers between ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise; fences between dogs, cats, and chickens; or borders between Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. Without them, messes result. (D
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