Participial Phrases:
* Yes, commas are used to set off participial phrases that are non-restrictive. This means the phrase provides extra information that isn't essential to understanding the main clause.
* Example: *The old house, creaking and groaning in the wind, stood on the hill.* (The phrase "creaking and groaning in the wind" provides extra detail about the house, but we know it's the old house even without it.)
* No commas are used to set off participial phrases that are restrictive. These phrases are essential to understanding the meaning of the sentence.
* Example: *The house sitting on the hill is for sale.* (We need the phrase "sitting on the hill" to know which house is for sale.)
Adverb Clauses:
* Yes, commas are used to set off adverb clauses that are non-restrictive. These clauses provide extra information that isn't essential to understanding the main clause.
* Example: *The game was postponed, because of the rain. * (We know the game was postponed, even without the reason.)
* No commas are used to set off adverb clauses that are restrictive. These clauses are essential to understanding the meaning of the sentence.
* Example: *I'll go to the store when I have time. * (We need the phrase "when I have time" to know when the person will go to the store.)
Key Points to Remember:
* Look for a complete subject and verb: If the clause has a subject and verb, it's an adverb clause.
* Test the meaning: If the phrase can be removed without changing the core meaning of the sentence, it's likely non-restrictive and should be set off with commas.
Let me know if you'd like me to elaborate on any of these points or provide more examples!