Definition / Explanation
A comma splice happens when two independent clauses are joined only by a comma. In standard written English, this is usually considered an error because the comma alone is not strong enough to connect two full sentences. The fix depends on the relationship between the clauses: we can use a full stop, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or so. This topic matters especially in essays, reports, and formal emails. At B2, learners should be able not only to spot the error but also to choose the best repair.
Key Rules
- Do not join two full independent clauses with only a comma.
- Use a full stop to separate them completely.
- Use a semicolon if the ideas are closely connected.
- Use a comma plus a coordinating conjunction: , and / but / so / yet.
- Check whether each side could stand alone as a sentence. If yes, a comma alone is usually wrong.
Examples
- I was late, so I missed the bus.
- I was late; I missed the bus.
- She was tired, so she went home early.
- The task was difficult, but we finished it.
- Prices rose; however, demand stayed high.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ We were tired, we went home. -> ✅ We were tired, so we went home.
- ❌ She called me, I did not answer. -> ✅ She called me, but I did not answer. / ✅ She called me. I did not answer.
- ❌ The task was difficult, however we finished it. -> ✅ The task was difficult; however, we finished it.