I saw a post:

«Let's eat grandma!
...
Let's eat, grandma!

Use commas, save lives!»

I'm surprised...Because I am no longer using comma before the subject since I even see teachers no using it. I used to use comma in this case since I began to study English (in my native language we use it similarly), but as a never saw anyone using it in that way, I thought I was wrong, then I stopped using this.

So, the correct is to use a commas before the subject as in 'Hello, folks!' (and not as in 'Hello folks!'), right?

Question

I saw a post:

«Let's eat grandma!
...
Let's eat, grandma!

Use commas, save lives!»

I'm surprised...Because I am no longer using comma before the subject since I even see teachers no using it. I used to use comma in this case since I began to study English (in my native language we use it similarly), but as a never saw anyone using it in that way, I thought I was wrong, then I stopped using this.

So, the correct is to use a commas before the subject as in 'Hello, folks!' (and not as in 'Hello folks!'), right?

Answer

Many people do not use correct grammar in their writing and I’m sure that is confusing when you are learning the language.

But in fact, using the comma is grammatically correct.

Answer

Yes, you should be using a comma in these situations. In situations where you have a transitive verb (like "eat") preceding the listener (like "grandma") removing the comma can cause confusion.

"Hello folks" is just as clear as "hello, folks" even though "hello, folks" is the more correct phrasing.

"Let's eat grandma" is not as clear as "let's eat, grandma" and in this case you should be careful NOT to drop the comma in order to retain clarity.

Answer

Hi Rafaela,

That one is pretty funny!

I also included one that is a little bit cruder. Haha, please don't make me expain it.

When it comes to grammar and punctuation, one can be a native speaker and still make mistakes and/or not understand its usage.

I have experience working as a conversational English teacher, but still struggle with the grammar myself.

Take good care.[Image]

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