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  1. lameri

    lameri New Member

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    Comma after adverbs?

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by lameri, Apr 21, 2011.

    Do you write a comma after "first" or "then"? I find contradicting guidelines.

    First, we went for a walk. Then, we took a break for lunch. (kind of example)
    Thank you.
     
  2. Reggie

    Reggie I Like 'Em hot "N Spicy Contributor

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    It isn't really necessary to add a comma after "First," and "Then" though, because it isn't a subordinate clause, but you will need one if the sentence is combined with the "...then we took a break for lunch," because the clause would be coordinating, and it has its own sentence.

    First we went for a walk, and then we took a break for lunch.

    First we went for a walk. We then took a break for lunch.

    We went for a walk, and then we took a break for lunch.

    We went for a walk and took a break for lunch.
     
  3. mammamaia

    mammamaia nit-picker-in-chief Contributor

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    i'd say it's optional... anyone have a reliable rule to challenge that?
     
  4. amementomori

    amementomori New Member

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    Short and simple answer in relation to your example: Yes.

    -- But it depends -- basically, it depends on flow. However, in certain cases and such you are required to use a comma.

    So the new short and simple answer in relation to your example: No.
     

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