grammar question

Some grammar rules (and embarrassing mistakes!) transcend the uniqueness of different regions and style guides. This new International Grammar section by OnlineBookClub.org ultimately identifies those rules thus providing a simple, flexible rule-set, respecting the differences between regions and style guides. You can feel free to ask general questions about spelling and grammar. You can also provide example sentences for other members to proofread and inform you of any grammar mistakes.

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Hager Salem
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grammar question

Post by Hager Salem »

Hi

Is this a mistake? and why?

Editor Comments:
People who don't have time to read a long book(,) or people who don't like reading that much(,) can enjoy it.
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Melissa Best
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Post by Melissa Best »

It looks like there is a clause there, and the editor is attempting to indicate pauses that would appear naturally if you were reading this sentence.
One way you can look at it is to imagine if the clause were removed. Would the sentence still make sense? In this case, it would, so I would agree with the editor that those commas belong. However, to a certain degree, writing is always subject to personal style and intended reading.
I highly recommend looking at Purdue Owl, they've got extensive resources on commas and their different uses in sentences!
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Shane Lucey
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Post by Shane Lucey »

The commas do seem to be needed. To be honest, it is not a well phrased sentence in the first place.
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Melissa Best
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Post by Melissa Best »

It looks like there is a clause there, and the editor is attempting to indicate pauses that would appear naturally if you were reading this sentence.
One way you can look at it is to imagine if the clause were removed. Would the sentence still make sense? In this case, it would, so I would agree with the editor that those commas belong. However, to a certain degree, writing is always subject to personal style and intended reading.
I highly recommend looking at Purdue Owl, they've got extensive resources on commas and their different uses in sentences!
Andrew Butchers
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Post by Andrew Butchers »

Is the editor adding those comments, or saying that those commas are not required ?
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