Do you use both commas when a modifier follows a coordinating conjunction?
Grammarians, which do you prefer, (1) or (2):
(1) [clause],[coordinating conjunction][modifier],[clause].
(2) [clause],[coordinating conjunction],[modifier],[clause].
Examples:
(a) The door was unlocked, but(,) knowing what was on the other side, I did not open it. [participial phrase]
(b) It’s going to rain, so(,) unless you want wet seats, you should roll up your car windows. [subordinate clause]
(c) Joe has worked very hard, and(,) like many people, I was happy for him when he won the competition. [adverbial phrase]
(d) Kim apologized, and(,) surprisingly, Pat forgave her. [adverb modifying a clause]
I have observed variation when constructions like these immediately follow coordinating conjunctions. Which do you prefer, and why?
Please note that (2) should not be confused with incorrectly placing a comma after a conjunction:
(e) *He ate it. But, he didn’t like it.
Topic:
grammar
Composing members: 0
Answers
)“Great Answer”
(1)
)“Great Answer”
(1)
)“Great Answer”
(2)
)“Great Answer”
(1)
)“Great Answer”
(0)
