1. writerdude11

    writerdude11 New Member

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    Do I need a comma here?

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by writerdude11, Apr 10, 2013.

    "Everything they had been through had led up to this moment (comma here?) and they were not about to let anything stop them"

    I'm thinking I don't need a comma here since it seems like it's all one idea. Am I wrong?. If anyone could clarify I'd greatly appreciate it, thanks
     
  2. SwampDog

    SwampDog Senior Member

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    You could insert a comma as it's separating two thoughts/phrases. A full stop would work as well.

    But for me it works without - either way.
     
  3. thirdwind

    thirdwind Member Contest Administrator Reviewer Contributor

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    Since you have two independent clauses, you technically need a comma. However, if it's fiction, you can bend the rules a little and not use a comma if you don't want the reader to pause there.
     
    1 person likes this.
  4. mammamaia

    mammamaia nit-picker-in-chief Contributor

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    comma there is optional... some writers of fiction like to keep commas down to a minimum...
     
  5. Jhunter

    Jhunter Mmm, bacon. Contributor

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    It all depends on how you want the sentence to read: with a stop, or not with a stop.

    Personally, I think it sounds better with the stop. But do what you want.
     
  6. minstrel

    minstrel Leader of the Insquirrelgency Supporter Contributor

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    Mammamaia is right: the comma is optional. Whether or not you use it will be determined by the tone you want. Read your whole paragraph aloud with the comma (there will be a pause) and without (no pause). See which works best for the pace, rhythm, and mood you're aiming for.
     

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