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Wordabulary

comma splice

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

A grammar error in which two complete sentences are joined by only a comma instead of a proper connector.

"'It was raining, we stayed inside' is a comma splice that needs a conjunction or a semicolon."

Usage notes

A comma splice can usually be fixed by adding a conjunction like 'and', or by replacing the comma with a semicolon or period.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "'It was raining, we stayed inside' is a _____ that needs a conjunction or a semicolon."

Answer: comma splice

In your own words, what does "comma splice" mean?

A grammar error in which two complete sentences are joined by only a comma instead of a proper connector.

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