Grammar: A1 - Writing Mechanics - Basics - Lesson 4: Basic Punctuation: Comma (in simple lists)

Writing: Using Commas in Lists

A2 Lesson 18: Basic Punctuation

What you will learn: By the end of this lesson, you will be able to use commas (,) correctly to separate three or more items in a list.

What is a Comma?

A comma ( , ) is a punctuation mark that tells the reader to take a short pause. Think of it as a small stop when you are reading a sentence. It has many jobs, but today we will learn its most common one: separating items in a list.

The Main Rule: Commas in a List

When you list three or more things, you must use a comma to separate them. We use the word 'and' just before the last item in the list.

Examples with Nouns (things):

• At the market in Kampot, you can buy crabs, shrimp, and squid.
• My bag contains a book, a pen, and a phone.

Examples with Adjectives (describing words):

• The weather today is hot, sunny, and windy.

Examples with Verbs (actions):

• In the morning, I wake up, get dressed, and eat breakfast.

Key Tip: The "Oxford Comma"

Sometimes, you will see a comma before the word 'and' in a list (like in our examples). This is called the Oxford Comma.

Some people always use it, and some people don't. Both ways are usually okay, but using it can sometimes make your sentence clearer and is a good habit for formal writing.

• With comma: I like red, white, and blue. (Recommended)
• Without comma: I like red, white and blue. (Also common)

Practice Your Punctuation 🎯

Exercise: Add the Commas

Add commas to these sentences where they are needed.

1. I can speak Khmer English and a little French.
   → I can speak Khmer, English, and a little French.
2. The restaurant was cheap clean and delicious.
   → The restaurant was cheap, clean, and delicious.
3. We need to buy rice vegetables and fish for dinner.
   → We need to buy rice, vegetables, and fish for dinner.

Your Writing Mission ⭐

Write Your Own Lists

Write two sentences about your life. Each sentence should contain a list of at least three items, using commas correctly.

Example: My three favorite fruits are mangoes, durian, and pineapple.

Key Vocabulary

• Comma (Noun) | ក្បៀស
  The punctuation mark ( , ) used to separate items in a list.
• List (Noun) | បញ្ជី
  A series of three or more words or items written one after another.
• Separate (Verb) | បំបែក
  To divide or put a space between things.
• Pause (Noun) | ផ្អាក
  A short stop or break when speaking or reading.