Run-on sentence: Difference between revisions
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*A run-on sentence where some independent clauses are missing parts of speech, so that one clause "morphs" into the next: |
*A run-on sentence where some independent clauses are missing parts of speech, so that one clause "morphs" into the next: |
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**'' I was interested in bought one of them.'' |
**'' I was interested in bought one of them.'' |
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==Lingustics== |
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In various ancient languages of literary uses , run on sentences were unheard of since no punctuation existed. Examples would be Sumerian and Akkadian as well as east asian scripts like classical chinese. |
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== Remedies == |
== Remedies == |
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Revision as of 02:42, 22 April 2011
A run-on sentence is a sentence in which two or more independent clauses (i.e., complete sentences) are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction. It is generally considered to be a grammatical error though it is occasionally used in literature and may be used as a rhetorical device. An example of a run-on is a comma splice, in which two independent clauses are joined with a comma without an accompanying coordinating conjunction.[1][2] Some grammarians exclude comma splices from the definition of a run-on sentence,[3] though this does not imply that such usage is acceptable.
The mere fact that a sentence is long does not make it a run-on sentence; sentences are run-ons only when they contain more than one complete idea. A run-on sentence can be as short as four words—for instance: I drive she walks. In this case there are two complete ideas (independent clauses): two subjects paired with two (intransitive) verbs. So as long as clauses are punctuated appropriately, a writer can assemble multiple independent clauses in a single sentence; in fact, a properly constructed sentence can be extended indefinitely.
Examples
- A run-on sentence, with no punctuation or conjunction between "five" and "we":
- It is nearly half past five we cannot reach town before dark.
- A comma splice, which is considered a run-on sentence in English by some usage experts:
- It is nearly half past five, we cannot reach town before dark.
- A run-on sentence where some independent clauses are missing parts of speech, so that one clause "morphs" into the next:
- I was interested in bought one of them.
Lingustics
In various ancient languages of literary uses , run on sentences were unheard of since no punctuation existed. Examples would be Sumerian and Akkadian as well as east asian scripts like classical chinese.
Remedies
- Use separate sentences. However, this may disconnect related independent clauses and cause some of the meaning to be lost:
- It is nearly half past five. We cannot reach town before dark.
- Use a semicolon. This maintains the connection between the clauses, whilst ensuring a pause between the two ideas:
- It is nearly half past five; we cannot reach town before dark.
- Use a coordinating conjunction.
- It is nearly half past five, so we cannot reach town before dark.
References
- ^ "Run-ons — Comma Splices — Fused Sentences". 2006-08-31. Retrieved 2008-01-24.
- ^ "Run-on Sentences, Comma Splices". Retrieved 2008-01-24.
- ^ Hairston, Maxine; Ruszkiewicz, John J.; Friend, Christy (1998). "The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers" (Document). New York: Longman. p. 509.
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