The importance of precise use of commas

BethS

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We've had other threads on this issue before, but this article is worth a read:

http://www.bbc.com/capital/story/20180723-the-commas-that-cost-companies-millions

Punctuation matters.

caw

And specifically, based on the first example, this is why the Oxford (or serial) comma is so important.

And then there's this--

“Sometimes there are genuinely different understandings,” she explains. “That little comma was put in a place that you would put in a place for a breath if you’re reading it out loud.”

--which illustrates why commas and breathing have naught to do with each other.
 

screenscope

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Well, given the subject of this thread, that wasn't obvious.

I have come to believe that the only legitimate reason for not using the Oxford comma is if you schooled at Cambridge.

caw

I strive not to be obvious :)

My comment expressed my relief that I am unlikely to be sued due to a comma placement choice in one of my novels. And fortunately the comma police do not have arrest powers.
 

Chase

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That took me back in time. I haven't heard the term 'drongo' for a couple of decades.

Far from drongo are the Aussie firefighters in Oregon this morning battling the blaze up our Columbia River Gorge.

:ty: and :applause: to them and to our neighbours across the Pacific.*

*This post was performed without forcing or harming any commas. :greenie
 
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screenscope

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Far from drongo are the Aussie firefighters in Oregon this morning battling the blaze up our Columbia River Gorge.

:ty: and :applause: to them and to our neighbours across the Pacific.*

*This post was performed without forcing or harming any commas. :greenie

It's great to see this kind of cooperation. US firefighters have been coming over here, too, when we suffer major bushfires. I also remember the annual visit of the giant American water bombing aircraft, 'Elvis,' for our bushfire season.