Overview
A comma splice is an error that occurs when two independent clauses are joined only with a comma, without a coordinating conjunction. Example (wrong): It was cold, we went home. Fixes include: adding a conjunction (… cold, so we went home), using a semicolon, or splitting into two sentences.
What is a Comma Splice?
- A comma splice joins two independent clauses with only a comma — not a conjunction or semicolon.
- ❌ SpliceI finished the report, I sent it immediately.
- ❌ SpliceShe was tired, she went to bed early.
- ❌ SpliceHe studied hard, he failed the exam.
Four Ways to Fix Comma Splices
- Full stopI finished the report. I sent it immediately.
- SemicolonI finished the report; I sent it immediately.
- ConjunctionI finished the report, and I sent it immediately.
- SubordinateAfter I finished the report, I sent it.
Note on Conjunctive Adverbs
- Words like however, therefore, moreover do NOT fix a comma splice on their own.
- ❌She was tired, however she kept working.
- ✅She was tired; however, she kept working.
- ✅She was tired. However, she kept working.
When to use
Academic essays
The data was collected; the results were analysed.
Business emails
I have reviewed your proposal. I have a few questions.
Narrative writing
The door opened slowly, and a figure appeared.
Journalism
The vote passed; the new law takes effect immediately.