Newsletter 016
Spelling and Punctuation: : , ‘ ) (
Continuing on the same note, this week we are broadening the discussion from the previous newsletter and analyzing the situations when we use colons, commas, apostrophes, and brackets.
One of the unsolved debates concerns the usage of the so-called Oxford comma (a.k.a. serial comma). Namely, when there are several things that are listed, we use commas to separate them (e.g. I bought bananas, apples, oranges…); but the problem arises when we reach the end of the list and the question is — do we put a comma before and or not?
Well, you will never make a mistake if you put one. The main reason for the debate is that some people think that the context will make things clear; however, as you can see in the picture, that is not always the case. Final verdict — we would recommend using it.
As you can see in the picture, commas can sometimes be used in the same way as hyphens or dashes, or even brackets would be used.
In the upper example in the picture, all the commas are used to separate items in a list. Pretty straightforward, right?
However, with the lack of an Oxford comma in the example in the bottom part of the picture, the commas are used to explain who the strippers are:
We invited the strippers, JFK and Stalin.
as with an Em dash:
We invited the strippers — JFK and Stalin.
or with brackets:
We invited the strippers (JFK and Stalin).
or even with a colon:
We invited the strippers: JFK and Stalin.
Taking all of the examples above, it is fair to say that the Oxford comma is here to stay especially since it brings clarity in a unique and unequivocal way.
Another thing to revise is the use of the apostrophe.
- Belonging
Singular — we always add an apostrophe and ‘s’.
Mickey’s pen is in the bag. Carlos’s friend has arrived.
That person’s meal is gone. A day’s rest is all I need.
Regular plural— we only add an apostrophe.
Books’ covers are all blue.
Projects’ managers will attend the meeting.
Irregular plural — we add an apostrophe and ‘s’ (the same as in singular).
Women’s clothes are very fashionable.
And this year’s people’s award goes to…
2. Shortening
It is = It’s ; It has = It’s
Do not = Don’t ; Will not = Won’t
Hopefully, this newsletter sheds light on some spelling and punctuation points that are generally problematic or can be discussed. The most important thing to remember is to spend time understanding what has been written and how, as it can come across as confusing or vague.
Practice makes perfect, but don’t forget the good old reading and understanding.
Take care!
