use a comma

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use a comma" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is a command or instruction to use a comma within a sentence. This phrase is typically used in writing guides or in discussions about grammar and punctuation. Example: When writing a list, use a comma after each item to separate them.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Use a comma instead.

The Economist

Do not use a comma between a subject and verb.

Stanford University

If you subordinate one clause to the other, you can totally use a comma.

The Guardian - Books

Use a comma in place of the second dash, or rephrase the sentence.

The New York Times

We often have a choice about whether or not to use a comma.

Stanford University

Do not use a comma between a preposition and its object.

Stanford University

Do not use a comma between a verb and its object or complement.

Stanford University

Do not use a comma before the first or after the last item in a series.

Stanford University

If you wished to emphasize his nationality (implying "very British," perhaps), you could indeed use a comma after "celebrated".

The New York Times

If nothing comes before the identification, don't use a comma: The defense team was led by the attorney Harold Cullen.

The New York Times

Both examples are perfectly grammatical with or without the comma but I would be inclined to use a comma after "tribe" in the second one.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When in doubt about comma placement, consult a grammar guide or style manual to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Common error

Do not automatically "use a comma" simply because a sentence is long or you think there should be a pause. Overuse can disrupt the flow and create unnecessary clutter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use a comma" functions as an imperative, instructing the reader or listener to include a comma in their writing. According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct and common instruction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

22%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

34%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "use a comma" serves as a direct instruction to include a comma in writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, from academic writing to news media. Understanding when and how to "use a comma" is crucial for clear and effective communication. While commas are versatile, overuse or misuse can lead to confusion. Remember to follow established grammar rules and consult resources when needed. With practice, you can confidently and correctly "use a comma" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employ a comma

Replaces "use" with the more formal "employ", maintaining the instruction to include a comma.

include a comma

Substitutes "use" with "include", offering a slightly different way to phrase the instruction.

insert a comma

Replaces "use" with "insert", emphasizing the action of placing a comma within the text.

apply a comma

Uses "apply" instead of "use", suggesting a more deliberate placement of the comma.

place a comma

Offers a more descriptive verb, "place", for including a comma.

commas should be used

Shifts from an imperative to a passive voice, advising on the appropriate use of commas.

a comma is needed

States the necessity of including a comma, rather than directly instructing its use.

integrate a comma

Replaces "use" with "integrate", highlighting the seamless inclusion of a comma within the text.

put in a comma

Uses a more informal phrasing, "put in", to suggest the inclusion of a comma.

consider a comma

Suggests that a comma might be appropriate, rather than directly instructing its use.

FAQs

How do I know when to "use a comma"?

Commas are used to separate elements in a series, to set off introductory phrases or clauses, to join independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction, and to set off nonessential information. Consult a grammar guide for specific rules.

What happens if I don't "use a comma" correctly?

Incorrect comma placement can lead to ambiguity, misinterpretation, and awkward sentence structure. It's essential for clear and effective communication.

Where can I find examples of how to "use a comma"?

You can find examples in writing guides, style manuals, and by observing comma usage in well-edited texts. Ludwig also provides numerous examples from reliable sources.

Are there situations where I should avoid to "use a comma"?

Yes, avoid using a comma between a subject and verb, between a preposition and its object, or before the first or after the last item in a series. Also, avoid using a comma if the adjectives are of unequal weight; for example, if one of the adjectives is a color or number and the other is a quality, you would not /s/use+a+comma.