Commas with non-restrictive elements

Key notes:

1. Understanding Non-Restrictive Elements

Non-restrictive elements (also known as non-essential clauses or phrases) are parts of a sentence that add extra information but do not change the essential meaning of the sentence. These elements can be removed without altering the main point.

2. Importance of Commas

Commas are used to separate non-restrictive elements from the rest of the sentence. Their correct placement helps clarify the sentence’s meaning and ensures proper punctuation.

3. Identifying Non-Restrictive Elements

  • Non-Restrictive Clauses: These are typically introduced by relative pronouns like who, which, or that (though “that” is usually used for restrictive clauses).
  • Example: “My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us.”
  • Non-Restrictive Phrases: These can be prepositional phrases, appositives, or other phrases that provide additional context.
  • Example: “The car, a red sedan, is parked outside.”

4. Rules for Using Commas with Non-Restrictive Elements

  • Use Commas to Set Off Non-Restrictive Clauses:
  1. Example: “The book, which was published last year, became a bestseller.”
  2. Explanation: The clause “which was published last year” provides extra information about the book but is not essential to understand which book is being discussed.
  • Use Commas to Set Off Non-Restrictive Phrases:
  1. Example: “My sister, a talented musician, plays the piano beautifully.”
  2. Explanation: The phrase “a talented musician” adds detail but isn’t necessary for identifying the sister.
  • Do Not Use Commas with Restrictive Elements:
  1. Example: “The student who studies hard will succeed.”
  2. Explanation: The clause “who studies hard” is essential to identify which student is being referred to; therefore, it does not take commas.

5. Common Mistakes

  • Omitting Commas: Failing to use commas can lead to confusion.
  • Incorrect: “My friend who lives in France is coming.”
  • Correct: “My friend, who lives in France, is coming.”
  • Adding Commas to Restrictive Elements: This can change the meaning of the sentence.
  • Incorrect: “The book, that I borrowed, is on the table.”
  • Correct: “The book that I borrowed is on the table.”

let’s practice!