Run-on Sentence
* Definition: A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (complete sentences with a subject and verb) are joined together without proper punctuation or conjunction. This results in a sentence that is grammatically incorrect and can be difficult to read.
* Example: The dog barked loudly the cat hissed back. (This is a run-on sentence because there is no punctuation or conjunction to separate the two independent clauses.)
Fused Sentence
* Definition: A fused sentence is another term for a run-on sentence, emphasizing the lack of any separation between the independent clauses.
Comma Splice
* Definition: A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined together only by a comma. While a comma can sometimes connect clauses (when using a coordinating conjunction like "and," "but," "or," "for," "nor," "so," or "yet"), it cannot stand alone to connect them.
* Example: The sun was shining brightly, the birds were singing. (This is a comma splice because the comma is not a strong enough punctuation mark to join the two independent clauses.)
How to Correct Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices:
* Use a Period: Separate the independent clauses with a period, making them into two separate sentences.
* Example: The dog barked loudly. The cat hissed back.
* Use a Semicolon: Connect the independent clauses with a semicolon (;), showing a close relationship between them.
* Example: The dog barked loudly; the cat hissed back.
* Use a Comma and a Coordinating Conjunction: Add a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, for, nor, so, yet) to connect the clauses.
* Example: The dog barked loudly, and the cat hissed back.
* Use a Subordinating Conjunction: Use a subordinating conjunction (such as because, since, although, while, etc.) to create a dependent clause and join it to the main clause.
* Example: Because the dog barked loudly, the cat hissed back.
Key Takeaway: Run-on sentences and comma splices make your writing clunky and difficult to understand. Always ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct and easy to follow!