Commas with direct addresses, introductory words, interjections and interrupters

key notes :

A comma is used to separate the name or title of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence.

  • “Sarah, can you pass the salt?”
  • “Can you help me, Mr. Jones?”
  • “Please sit down, everyone.”

Use a comma after an introductory word, phrase, or clause to set it apart from the main part of the sentence.

  • “Yes, I would love to join you.”
  • “After the movie, we went to dinner.”
  • “Well, it looks like it might rain.”

An interjection is a word or phrase that expresses sudden emotion. Use a comma to separate it from the rest of the sentence.

  • “Wow, that’s amazing!”
  • “Oh, I didn’t realize that.”
  • “Oops, I made a mistake.”

Interrupters are words, phrases, or clauses that break the flow of a sentence. Use commas to set them off.

  • “The answer, I believe, is incorrect.”
  • “This book, in my opinion, is fantastic.”
  • “You should, however, check your work.”
  • Always place the comma directly after the introductory word or interjection.
  • For interrupters, place commas before and after the phrase.
  • Practice distinguishing between when a comma is needed for clarity and when it can be omitted.

Let’s practice!🖊️