Hey, Let's Talk Commas

"Let it be known I am a fan of the comma; it gives cadence to my writing. Those who disagree are in their usual hurried state . . . not giving pause where a breath is due."

—Nanette L. Avery

All right, who’s ready for another quick comma refresher? Today we'll review how to use commas with two special colloquial expressions: interjections and tag sentences.

Using Commas with Interjections

An interjection is a word or phrase used to gain a reader’s attention, often expressing strong emotion or surprise. Whenever you include an interjection in your writing, separate it from the rest of the sentence with a comma or exclamation point. Use a comma to set off mild interjections, and use an exclamation point to emphasize stronger emotion.

Well, I was not expecting these results.

Hey, now’s not the time to despair.

Wow! You've done great work on this project.

Do you notice how the commas in the first two examples signal a natural pause and help the reader separate the interjection from the subject of the sentence? In the third example, note that the sentence after the exclamation point starts with a capital letter.

Using Commas with Tag Sentences

A tag sentence is a short statement or question at the end of a sentence. Use a comma to separate the tag sentence from the main sentence.

The payment is past due, isn’t it?

Editor's Note

Interjections and tag sentences can help you establish a relaxed, conversational tone in your writing. However, they work best when used sparingly. Further, you should avoid them altogether in formal business correspondence.

But you already knew that, didn’t you?

Play the Editor!

Copy the email reply into a document and insert the missing commas or exclamation points. (Scroll down to see our recommendation.)

Dear Dennis,

Yes I received the gas and radon inspection results for 389 Cornell Ave. I was happy to read that the property passed the inspection. With the sewer, gas, radon, and property inspections now complete, we just need the bank to approve the loan to complete the purchase correct?

Woot thanks for all of your help with this property. It sure feels good to see the finish line ahead doesn't it?

Warm regards,
Mary

Get More Support

Explore the Write for Business Guide for more tips on using commas.

Editor's Recommendation

Dear Dennis,

Yes, I received the gas and radon inspection results for 389 Cornell Ave. I was happy to read that the property passed inspection. With the sewer, gas, radon, and property inspections now complete, we just need the bank to approve the loan to complete the purchase, correct?

Woot! Thanks for all of your help with this property. It sure feels good to see the finish line ahead, doesn't it?

Warm regards,
Mary

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