Oxford Comma
Also known as the “serial comma,” the Oxford comma is the sometimes-optional final comma in a list of things. For example, the comma after “milk” in the below sentence:
Gordon bought bread, milk, and eggs at the grocery store.
Some style guides insist on the Oxford comma, and others think it’s no big deal. But, neglecting to use it can lead to some serious misunderstandings.
I’m having breakfast with my parents, Beyonce and Jay-Z.
The lack of an Oxford comma in this sentence makes its meaning ambiguous. Is the speaker having breakfast with four people — Mom, Dad, Beyonce, and Jay-Z? Or are their parents actually Beyonce and Jay-Z? Inquiring minds want to know. A final comma in the series would clear up the confusion.
Thanks for this and other tips Hallard has published over time.
Thanks, Steve. Our whole purpose is to publish articles of interest to writers and share short stories with our readers.
…Nancy
Over Thanksgiving we were discussing “Oxford comma” with the family, because we were staying away from politics and religion! Interesting, and safe subject!😃