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The Usage of Comma in lists

Pew Peww
Pew Peww
The Usage of Comma in lists
Greetings 😊while working on a story, they wrote, "The puppy was small, fluffy, playful and energetic." Is it correct to leave out the comma before "and energetic," or should it always be included?
Pew_Peww
1
Last update: 1 day ago
1 answers
Vic C
Vic C
Viktor_Curcic - Tutor account
Near Native Speaker
Serbia

Hello! 😊 Whether to include a comma before "and energetic" in the sentence depends on the style guide being followed and personal preference.

In this case:

  • Including the comma (Oxford/serial comma):
    "The puppy was small, fluffy, playful, and energetic."
    This adds clarity and prevents potential ambiguity, especially in longer or more complex lists.
  • Leaving out the comma:
    "The puppy was small, fluffy, playful and energetic."
    This is also correct and commonly used in informal writing or when following a style guide that omits the serial comma.

For most writing, it’s a stylistic choice. The Oxford comma is often preferred in formal writing or when clarity is essential. I hope this helps!

0
Last update: 6 months ago
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