Certain grammatical situations require the use of a comma beforeand. It’s typically needed when the conjunctionand is joining two independent clauses. Or if you’re using it in lists that require an Oxford comma.
This brief guide will shed light on the age-old question of whether to use a comma before the word and.
Main Comma Before And Takeaways:
A comma is a form of punctuation that indicates a pause in a sentence and separates items in a list.
Commas should be used before and when joining two independent clauses or when compiling a list.
If the and is separating items in a list or series
Whether you’re using an Oxford (or serial) comma
If a pause is necessary
What style guide you’re following
Use a comma before and when you’re joining two independent clauses.
What is the Comma Before And Called?
The answer to that depends on how you’re using the word and. In general terms, a comma falls under the category of a punctuation mark. It’s often used to indicate a pause in a sentence or to separate items in a list. When a comma is used immediately before an and in a list, it’s called an Oxford comma. Others may refer to the comma before and as a serial or Harvard comma.
What are the 8 Commas Rules?
Whether it comes before and or elsewhere in a sentence, following basic comma rules can make using this misunderstood punctuation mark a breeze. In a nutshell, we use commas to:
list items,
separate adjectives,
join independent clauses,
offset introductory and nonessential phrases,
introduce quotations, and
maintain flow.
Whew! Take a breath. Let’s take a closer look at each of these rules.
Rule 1: Use a Comma in a Series or List
When creating a list of three or more simple words, items, or concepts, use a comma to separate each word or word group.
She made a casserole out of chicken, pasta, and leftover broccoli.
Note: Using a comma after the next-to-last item in a list is a stylistic choice and may depend on the style guide you’re following.
Rule 2: Separate Adjectives With a Comma
When you use more than one adjective to modify a noun or pronoun, use commas to separate them. This is only true if the adjectives’ order is interchangeable.
She had a happy, healthy baby.
Note: This could easily read: She had a healthy, happy baby.
Rule 3: Use a Comma When Joining Two Independent Clauses
When a conjunction (for example: and, or, and but) links two independent clauses, you need to put a comma before the conjunction.
He walked through the building, but he didn’t turn on any lights.
Note: An independent clause must have a subject and verb. It should express a complete thought.
A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined together using only a comma.
Rule 4: If a Sentence Begins With a Dependent Clause, Use a Comma After It
If a sentence begins with an introductory phrase or dependent clause, it should have a comma immediately after it.
If you’re going to the store, pick me up a gallon of milk.
Rule 5: Offset Nonessential Words, Phrases, or Clauses With Commas
If a sentence contains nonessential words, phrases, or clauses, use commas to set them apart. These nonessential sections often begin with words such as who or which. They may be removed from a sentence without altering its meaning.
Adam, who had loved Marybeth since he was in elementary school, knew it was time to let her go.
Rule 6: Commas Introduce Direct Quotations
Direct quotations, such as dialogue, should be preceded by commas.
When she brought her dog to Florida, her aunt warned, “Watch out for those toxic cane toads!”
Commas may also be used to express interruptions to direct quotations.
“Never,” she responded, “would my dog go after anything bigger than a fly.”
Rule 7: Commas Set Off Phrases That Interfere With Sentence Flow
Commas can be used to set apart phrases that interrupt the flow of a sentence. These may include expressions such as by the way, after all, and nevertheless.
That store clerk, by the way, was once an executive at an international bank.
Commas are used to set apart interrupters or phrases that interrupt the flow of the sentence.
Rule 8: Commas Set Off Names, Nicknames, and Titles
When directly addressing a person, use a comma to set off their name, nickname, title, or term of endearment.
I didn’t mean to say that, sir.
Will you, Elizabeth Pruitt, marry me?
Sleep well, Love Bug!
Do You Use a Comma Before “And” When Joining Two Sentences?
Yes. When joining two independent clauses or sentences, “and” acts as a coordinating conjunction. The rule states that a comma must be used before a conjunction when it’s joining two independent clauses or sentences. This rule is applicable to other coordinating conjunctions like but, so, and or, to name a few.
There were many people at the concert, and some of the attendees stayed late for the fireworks display.
It was raining, so I stayed at home the whole day.
You can buy him a gift, or you can take him to dinner.
Mother loves dancing, but she hates singing.
Commas Before And: An Overview
Commas BeforeAnd are used primarily in two specific situations:
1. Joining Independent Clauses With a Conjunction
An independent clause is a phrase that expresses a complete thought. It must have both a subject and a verb. In other words, it can stand alone as a sentence.
A sentence can contain two independent clauses if they’re linked by a conjunction such as and, or, and but. (Without the conjunction, two independent clauses typically form a run-on sentence). A comma is required after the final word of the first clause, before and (or whatever conjunction you’re using).
Take these two independent clauses:
Peter often went to sci-fi conventions.
He always dressed in costume.
If you join them together with only a comma, they form a comma splice.
Peter often went to sci-fi conventions, he always dressed in costume.
If you add an and after the comma, the sentence becomes grammatically correct.
Peter often went to sci-fi conventions, and he always dressed in costume.
A sentence can contain two independent clauses if they’re linked by a conjunction such as but. Without the conjunction “but,” the two independent clauses linked only by a comma will result to a run-on sentence which is grammatically incorrect.
Exceptions to the rule:
If the two independent clauses are short and have a strong connection, then the comma should be omitted. Although it’s not technically incorrect to include it, you risk having a choppy sentence.
Peter wrote and Jonathan illustrated.
2. Before the Next-To-Last Item in a List
Commas are almost always used to separate items in a list or series that contains three or more things. More specifically, some lists contain a comma that’s known as the Oxford comma. This punctuation sits immediately after the list’s next-to-last item, just before the and or the or.
Animal-loving Judy always had a house filled with dogs, cats, birds, and hamsters.
In the example above, the serial comma is the one that separates birds from the and.
Exceptions to the Rule: In simple lists, a comma beforeand isn’t always necessary and doesn’t actually enhance a sentence. Sometimes, the omission of this serial comma is even advisable.
In fact, the Oxford comma is a hotly debated point in modern grammar, and ultimately, it comes down to a stylistic choice.
Carol likes to mix peas, corn, and carrots.
Carol likes to mix peas, corn and carrots.
Certain style guides, such as the AP Stylebook, don’t advocate using this serial comma unless it’s absolutely necessary for preserving a sentence’s meaning.
Comma Confusion: Final Thoughts
Let’s face it. Commas can be confusing. They’re also important. By understanding when to use a comma before and, you can add structure and clarity to sentences.
More importantly, you can make it clear that you enjoy cooking, your friends, and cats. And that no, you don’t enjoy cooking your friends and cats.
Quick Comma Before and Quiz
Comma Before And Question #1
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is D. Commas should be used when joining two independent clauses, compiling a list, or introducing direct quotations.
Comma Before And Question #2
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is C. The Oxford comma comes immediately before an "and" in a list. Others refer to it as a serial comma or Harvard comma.
Comma Before And Question #3
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is A. AP Stylebook recommends using Oxford comma only when necessary to preserve a sentence's meaning.
Comma Before And Question #4
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. You can separate adjectives with a comma only when the adjectives’ order is interchangeable.
Comma Before And Question #5
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is TRUE. An independent clause can stand alone.
Comma Before And Question #6
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. Use a comma after the final word of the first clause, before “and.”
Commas are one of the most versatile tools in the English Language. As a result, how to use commas correctly is one of the most difficult things to master. In this ultimate guide, we’ll tell you exactly when you need to use a comma and when you don’t. We’ll also give you easy tricks to know how to use commas correctly every time.
Main How to use Commas Takeaways:
A comma is a punctuation mark that creates a soft pause.
A comma separates words, not letters.
Use a comma to separate coordinate adjectives (We enjoyed the warm, sunny weather).
Use commas to separate items in a list. Use the Oxford or serial comma before the last item in a list to clarify the list.
Put a comma after introductory words, phrases, and clauses.
Nonrestrictive (nonessential clauses) need commas. These can include appositives, negations, interrupters, parenthetical elements, and question tags.
Restrictive (essential) clauses don’t need commas.
When a conjunction like and, but, or, yet, for, nor, and so separates two independent clauses, use a comma before the conjunction (I love him dearly, but I can’t stand the way he chews).
Use a comma to separate names. Examples include separate a city from a state (Boston, Massachusetts), a last name from a first name (Morris, Krista), or a proper name from a title (Chris Parbey, Jr.).
Use a comma after every three numbers when a number is bigger than 999 (1,000,000).
Dates that use the day-month-year format need a comma between the day and the month. Put a comma between the day of the week and the date (Tuesday, September 11, 2001).
Use a comma to separate the attribution tag and the quotation (“I’m coming home early,” she proclaimed).
In American English, the comma goes inside the quotation marks. Conversely, in British English, the comma goes outside the quotation marks.
Never use a comma in place of period or semi colon. This could create acomma splice, which is a grammatical error.
You don’t need a comma in comparisons that use “than.”
Do you know how to use commas in your writing? In a nutshell, we use commas to separate different elements of a sentence.
What is a Comma?
A comma is a punctuation mark that separates words, not letters.It adds clarity to any written content by indicating pauses or transitions. What’s more, commas can help join ideas and make the relationships between them clearer.
You may use commas in lists, addresses, dates, and in numbers greater than 999. This punctuation is also often used after introductory clauses and for clauses that begin with conjunctions like and, which, such as, but, or, yet, for, nor, and so. Lastly, quotations, interrupters, and some parenthetical statements require commas as well.
Comma definition:(noun) a punctuation mark that separates a list or indicates a pause between words
A comma resembles another piece of punctuation — the apostrophe. However, instead of appearing at the top-right corner of a letter, a comma is placed at the lower-right corner of the last letter of a word.
When Do You Use a Comma?
Use a Comma in these situations:
After a dependent clause at the beginning of a sentence
After introductory adverbs and phrases like although, interestingly, and in fact.
After a freestanding “yes” or “no”
After directly addressing someone
Before coordinating conjunctions (like and, but, for, or, nor, yet, so) that join two independent clauses
To offset nonessential or nonrestrictive clauses
To offset appositives
To offset interrupters and parenthetical elements
Before question tags
To separate list items
After the day in the month-day-year format
Between the day of the week and a date in the day-month-year format
After every three numbers for numbers greater than 999
To separate cities from states
To separate proper names from titles
Between coordinate adjectives
Between attributive tags and quotations
Inside quotation marks in American English
Do not use a comma in these situations:
To replace a period or semicolon. This creates a comma splice.
To offset restrictive or essential clauses
To separate a subject from its verb
To separate two nouns that form a compound subject or compound object (two separate nouns doing the same thing)
To separate two verbs that form a compound predicate (one subject that does two things)
After the word “than” in comparisons
Between a month and a year
In the day-month-year format for dates
Before and in a list of just two items
Let’s take a closer look at when you need to use a comma in your writing.
Commas After Introductory Words, Phrases, and Clauses
Rule: Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase. Introductory clauses often begin with words like: after, although, because, before, if, since, until, and when.
When my dog needs exercise, I take her for a long walk on the beach.
After a Dependent Clause at the Beginning of a Sentence
While we were hiking we spotted a deer.
While we were hiking, we spotted a deer.
We spotted a deer while hiking.
Independent clauses can stand alone, so they don’t need a comma unless you include a conjunction.
After Introductory Adverbs and Phrases
Interestingly, we spotted a deer while hiking.
Interestingly we spotted a deer while hiking.
After a Freestanding Yes or No
Yes, we saw a deer while hiking.
Yes we saw a deer while hiking.
No, we didn’t chase it.
No we didn’t chase it.
To Directly Address Someone
Karen, did you call the police again?
Karen did you call the police again?
Mr. President, you have a call on your secure line.
Mr. President you have a call on your secure line.
Commas With Coordinating Conjunctions Connecting Independent Clauses
Rule:Commas should be used to separate independent clauses that are linked by and, but, so, or, for, nor, and yet.
Independent clauses have this name because they can function as complete sentences on their own. Two independent clauses might be separate sentences, but they also might express ideas that are related. In this case, we can join these separate thoughts using a coordinating conjunction.
The comma before the coordinating conjunction is like the glue that holds these two independent clauses together.
Use a comma before these coordinating conjunctions when they join two independent clauses:
I was craving seafood, so I treated myself to a lobster at my favorite restaurant.
I was craving seafood so I treated myself to a lobster at my favorite restaurant.
They arrived safely at the lodge, but they weren’t able to check in until the next day.
They arrived safely at the lodge but they weren’t able to check in until the next day.
Do You Need a Comma Before Especially?
Use a comma when the word “especially” divides a parenthetical phrase. A parenthetical phrase describes nonessential information that is added to a sentence. The info does not change the sentence’s meaning.
Jill loves cupcakes, especially when they have chocolate frosting.
Sal tries to watch every Cardinals game, especially when Yadi is on the field.
My kids love a homemade breakfast, especially when it includes pancakes.
In the sentences above, especially acts as a conjunction. You don’t need a comma when especially is an adverb.
Lisa wasn’t especially fond of her ex.
The street was especially busy because the crew is repairing the potholes.
At first, her ideas weren’t especially welcome in the male-dominated office.
Commas With Nonessential Words or Phrases
Rule: Use commas to offset phrases or words that are not essential to the sentence.
Try this quick trick to confirm whether or not you need commas around a particular word or phrase. First, remove the word or phrase from the sentence. Second, ask yourself: Does the sentence still make sense? Did the meaning change?
If the meaning doesn’t really change, then you need a comma.
This is because the word or phrase represents a nonrestrictive or nonessential clause. In other words, there’s nothing that restricts us from removing it from the sentence. It’s not essential to the meaning of the sentence.
I set up the dining room table, which only seats six, before the dinner party.
In this example, try removing the phrase which only seats six.
I set up the dining room table before the dinner party.
Sure, we lose a bit of detail. But, the core meaning of the sentence doesn’t change.
Therefore, which on seats six is a nonrestrictive clauses that we should offset with commas to show this.
If the meaning does change, then you don’t need a comma.
This is because the word or phrase represents a restrictive or essential clause. In other words, there is something that restricts us from removing it from the sentence. It is essential to the meaning of the sentence.
Commas With Appositives
Similarly, you should always use commas to offset a nonrestrictive or nonessential appositive. Appositives are nouns or noun phrases that identify the nouns that come right before them.
Easily test if a word or phrase is restrictive or nonrestrictive by removing it from the sentence.
If you sentence still makes sense and the meaning doesn’t change, then the phrase is nonrestrictive. As a result, you need to use commas:
Her supervisor, Laura, usually leaves around 7 pm.
Her supervisor Laura usually leaves around 7 pm.
He proposed to her in Punta Ala, a secluded town in Southern Tuscany.
He proposed to her in Punta Ala a secluded town in Southern Tuscany.
However, if you sentence does not make sense or the meaning has changed, then the phrase is nonrestrictive. As a result, you don’t need to use commas:
The actress Julia Roberts plans to make a special guest appearance.
The actress, Julia Roberts, plans to make a special guest appearance.
Commas With Negations
Rule:Commas can set off contrasted coordinate elements in the middle of sentence or at the end.
In general, commas can help clarify what we mean. One specific example is using commas to offset contrasted coordinate elements like negations.
We saw a deer, not a bear, while hiking.
That mistake was because of carelessness, not stupidity.
Commas With Interrupters and Parenthetical Elements
Interrupters are words or short phrases that appear in the middle of a sentence. They help show emotion, add emphasis, or convey tone.
Parenthetical elements are a type of interrupter. They represent an aside. For example, they add additional information that provides more detail but isn’t essential. We show that they are not essential by offsetting them with commas, dashes, or parenthesis.
In this way, interrupters and parenthetical elements behave like nonrestrictive clauses. Offsetting them with commas helps show that they are nice to have, but not essential.
We know we need commas to offset nonrestrictive or nonessential clauses. This is because this type of clause adds extra information to a sentence without changing the core meaning.
The buffet you’ll be thrilled to know is all-you-can-eat.
The buffet, you’ll be thrilled to know, is all-you-can-eat.
The buffet (you’ll be thrilled to know) is all-you-can-eat.
Her eldest daughter unlike mine is extremely outgoing.
Her eldest daughter, unlike mine, is extremely outgoing.
Her eldest daughter (unlike mine) is extremely outgoing.
It was after all the happiest day of my life.
It was, after all, the happiest day of my life.
It was (after all) the happiest day of my life.
Commas Before Question Tags
A question tag is a word or phrase added at the end of statement that turns the sentence into a question. They are a way to encourage your audience to agree with you.
The flowers they sent were lovely, weren’t they?
The courier didn’t really deliver the documents to the wrong office, did he?
Since you can remove a question tag without changing the meaning of the sentence, think of a question tag as a nonrestrictive or nonessential clause.
As a result, you should always use a comma before the question tag.
Commas With Lists
Rule: Use serial commas to separate items in a list or series of three or more things. Depending on the style guide, the last comma may be optional. However, if omitting the last comma may cause any confusion, you should include it.
Separate List Items With a Comma
My shopping list included eggs, milk, bread and treats for our cat.
My shopping list included eggs, milk, bread, and treats for our cat.
Commas separate words, not letters.
When to use an Oxford (Serial) Comma
For lists of three or more items, you can use an Oxford comma before the coordinating conjunction. Because it helps separate items in a series, it is also called a serial comma.
June enjoyed a hearty breakfast of eggs, sausage, and biscuits.
Jason loves soccer, track, and basketball.
Sadie’s cat enjoys tuna, salmon, and beef.
Jackson’s wife asked him to grab some items from Target, Home Depot, and the grocery store.
Clarify a List
Some writers omit Oxford commas because style guides or publications don’t allow it. However, this can cause confusion.
Sometimes, omitting or including a serial comma can change the meaning of the sentence.
Sarah had lunch with her best friend, a butterfly collector and an unfaithful spouse.
Without the serial comma, this sentence could mean two completely different things:
Option 1: Sarah had lunch with one person (her best friend that collects butterflies and cheats on her husband)
Option 2: Sarah had lunch with three different different people.
Option 1: Sarah only had lunch with one person, her best friend.
In this case, the phrase a butterfly collector and an unfaithful spouse is acting as an appositive that identifies her best friend.
Since this appositive is nonrestrictive, we need to use a comma before the appositive.
Sarah had lunch with her best friend, a butterfly collector and an unfaithful spouse.
Option 2: Sarah actually had lunch with three different people.
In this case, phrase a butterfly collector and an unfaithful spouse is not acting as an appositive.
Instead, the phrase a butterfly collector describes one person and the phrase an unfaithful spouse describes another person. To make it absolutely clear that we are talking about three separate people instead of one, we should use a serial comma.
Sarah had lunch with her best friend, a butterfly collector, and an unfaithful spouse.
Commas with Dates
When to use a Comma with Dates
Month-day-year Format
Their great grandmother became an American citizen on June 12, 1958.
Day of the Week + Date
Their great grandmother became an American citizen on Thursday, June 12, 1958, at 10 am.
When not to use a Comma with Dates
Day-month-year Format
His entire unit deployed on 25 March 2011.
His entire unit deployed on 25 March, 2011.
Only Month + Year
His entire unit deployed in March 2011.
His entire unit deployed in March, 2011.
Commas With Numbers
Rule: For numbers that are larger than 999, add a comma after every three numbers.
A comma represents the thousandths place of a number. You place it between the digits in the thousands and hundreds spots.
One comma means you are working with a number in the thousands. This number may be as small as 1,000 or as large as 999,999.
1,234
13,579
35,777
999,999
A number with two commas has a value in the millions. This number should range from 1,000,000 to 999,999,999.
500,000,000
In the United States, people use decimals to separate integers from fractions. Other countries, such as Japan, China, and Singapore, prefer commas.
Commas With Names
Rule: Use commas to set apart geographical places and titles in names.
He moved to Long Island, New York.
The letter was addressed to Dr. Robert Morris, PhD.
Commas with Addresses
It’s important to format your address correctly if you’re shipping a package or mailing a letter.
Between the City and State
In the United States, addresses typically require a comma between the city and state.
Jolie Joverson
123 Main Street
St. Louis, MO 63114
When Formatting an Address in a Sentence
I live at 123 Main Street, St. Louis, Missouri, 63114.
Commas Between Coordinate Adjectives
Rule: Use a comma to separate coordinate adjectives that describe a noun.
Coordinate adjectives modify the same noun to the same degree. In other words, they coordinate with one another to describe a noun.
When you’re not sure if adjectives are coordinate or not, try switching around their order. Does the sentence still make sense? Does it still sound correct?
Let’s say that the sentence still makes sense and sounds correct. Then, the adjectives are coordinate and you need a comma to separate them.
We experienced damp, windy conditions for days after the big storm.
We experienced windy, damp conditions for days after the big storm.
However, let’s say that the sentence does not still make sense. Or, it sounds incorrect.
Then, the adjectives are not coordinate and you don’t need a comma between them.
That sweet elderly woman has breakfast here every day.
That elderly sweet woman has breakfast here every day.
Commas With Quotations
Between Attributive Tag and Quotation
Rule: Use a comma between dialogue tags and quotations.
An attributive tag, or dialogue tag, identifies the speaker. For example, “she said” and “the professor explained” are attributive tags.
Attributive tags can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. Use a comma to separate the attributive tag from the quotation.
She said, “I’m taking the dog for a walk.”
“When I come home from work,” she said, “I’m taking the dog for a walk.”
“I’m taking the dog for a walk,” she said.
You don’t need a comma if the quotation ends in an exclamation point or question mark.
“The house is on fire!” he yelled as he ran down the hill toward us.
“The house is on fire!”, he yelled as he ran down the hill toward us.
Inside Quotation Marks
In American English, always place the comma inside the quotation marks. Conversely, in British English, always place the comma outside the closing quotation marks.
American English:
“Call me the second you arrive,” her father warned.
“Call me the second you arrive”, her father warned.
British English:
“Kindly deliver the crates to dock 48”, the captain requested.
“Kindly deliver the crates to dock 48,” the captain requested.
What Are Comma Splices?
Comma splices are a common error. They occur when someone joins two independent clauses with an unnecessary comma. You can prevent this problem by adding a conjunction or breaking the clauses into two separate sentences.
Mallory went to the buffet, she ate lots of food.
Mallory went to the buffet, and she ate lots of food.
Mallory went to the buffet. She ate lots of food.
You can also turn the second half of your sentence into a dependent clause. This eliminates the need for a comma.
Mallory went to the buffet and ate lots of food.
You can identify a comma splice by reading each half of your sentence separately. Can each section stand on its own? If so, you don’t need a comma unless you add a conjunction.
Why Do We Use Commas?
Commas provide clarification. Separating words with a comma helps readers understand your thoughts in an essay, email, or article. Sometimes commas appear between words where people naturally pause while speaking.
However, you should not always place a comma where you would pause in a verbal conversation. Many people overuse commas, which leads to confusion. It also makes sentences choppy and hard to understand.
Rule: Use commas to prevent confusion or to clarify meaning.
She wasn’t killed, mercifully. — vs.— She wasn’t killed mercifully.
See if You’ve Mastered how to use Commas With a Quick Quiz
How to use Commas Question #1
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. A comma is a punctuation mark that separates a list or indicates a pause between words. You can't use it to separate letters.
Comma Question #2
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is TRUE. An Oxford comma is also called a serial comma because it appears in a list of three or more items.
Commas Question #3
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. Place an oxford comma before the coordinating conjunction.
How to use a Comma Question #4
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. Don't use a comma to join two independent clauses without a conjunction. This is called a comma splice.
Comma Question #5
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. The comma represents the thousandths place of a number.
Commas Question #6
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is A. Use additional commas as necessary to format addresses in a sentence.
A lot is a word, but alot is not a word (unless you’re talking about a town in India).
A lot and allot are different words.
A lot refers to a large quantity of a given item.
Allot means to assign a portion of something to a person or set aside a share.
The alot or a lot or allot debate may be one of the most confusing issues in grammar. Two are real words, one is not.
Is it A lot or Alot?
Alot is not a word. Instead, it’s a misspelling of the term a lot. While you might see alot in texts, emails, and other content, it’s a mistake. An easy way to remember the correct spelling is to associate what a lot means with the space between the word contains. For example, a lot means a large quantity of something, like room or space. You know alot is incorrect because there’s no room between the “a” and the “l.” On the other hand, you know that a lot is correct because there is a lot of space between the”a” and the “l.”
“Alot” is a common misspelling of the phrase “a lot.”
[Incorrect]I can’t stand alot of talking while I’m trying to study[/incorrect].
[Correct]He always wears a lot of cologne when he does out on dates.[/correct]
The second way to remember the difference between a lot vs. alot is a bit more technical.
You can think about a lot and alot in terms of articles and nouns. For instance, alittle or abunch are in correct.
In the same way, combining a and lot into alot doesn’t work, either.
Bottom line: When it comes to using alot or a lot, only a lot is correct.
Alotis a relatively small town with a population of just under 41,000.
What is the Meaning of A lot?
A lot means a large number, great deal, or big quantity of something. It can be an adverb or a pronoun. Use a lot whenever you want your reader to understand that you’re referring to a large quantity of something. That something could be a tangible object, like fruit. It could also be something intangible, like time.
It takesa lotof time to learn Japanese.
I love lime, so I squeezea lotof it into my water.
A lotof people are afraid of snakes.
In October,a lotof people like to carve pumpkins and pick out scary costumes.
He boughta lotof cilantro at the store for Taco Tuesday.
It’s the rainy season, so we’ve been staying indoorsa lot.
There area lotof frogs in this world and not so many princes.
Librarians work arounda lotof books.
Is it a lot, alot, or allot? Two of these words are correct, one is not. Can you guess the misspelled word?
What can I write Instead of A lot?
Usually, a lot is more appropriate for informal writing or speaking. Here are some alternatives you can use instead of a lot:
myriad
plethora
numerous
ample
many
several
a good deal (of)
a great deal (of)
a whole heap (of)
a large number (of)
an endless amount (of)
an abundance (of)
a copious amount (of)
an enomous amount (of)
a slew (of)
a surplus (of)
plenty (of)
a legion (of)
bunches (of)
heaps (of)
loads (of)
tons (of)
masses (of)
Is Thanks a lot Rude?
It can be. It all depends on the tone you use and your intention when you say it. On one hand, it can be an informal way of saying “thank you very much.” On the other hand, “thanks a lot” can also be a sarcastic remark in American English. To avoid sending the wrong message, we recommend going for the more formal (and neutral) “thank you very much.” A more informal alternative is “thanks a bunch.”
[Example] Sarcastic: I thought you were going to give me a ride home from the grocery store! I had to walk all the way back carrying everything. Thanks a lot for nothing![/example]
Sincere: Thanks a lot for dinner the other night, I really enjoyed it.[example]
What is the Difference Between lot and A lot?
The main difference between the two is lot is a noun and usually refers to a portion while a lot can be a pronoun or adverb and usually refers to quantity. For example, lot typically means a section or plot of land. Think of a parking lot. It can also refer to a specific group or set of people or things. Finally, lot can also refer to a person’s fate in life, and usually has a negative connotation. Conversely, a lot means a large number or quantity of something. What’s more, a lot may look like two words but its actually treated as a unit. On the hand, lot can function on its own and can be used with the articles other than “a.”
[Example]Fora group:That’s a scary looking lot of Halloween costumes!
[Example]When referring to a portion of land: Stephanie’s dream is to buy that lot of land and build her dream house.[/example]
[Example]For a person’s fate: My uncle was never satisfied with his lot in life.[/example]
[Example]When referring to a quantity: I tend to eat a lot of fruit in the morning[/example]
But, where does allot come in?
“Allot” means to give or assign a portion of something to someone.
Define Allot: What Does Allot Mean?
Add an “l” to alot, and you get allot. It’s just one little letter, but that addition creates an entirely new meaning. Allot is a verb that means to give someone a share of an item or set aside part of a task.
A lot is the opposite of a little. Both have spaces, and both refer to quantities.
Allot takes all of something and divides into portions or shares.
Mary had two containers of ice cream left, one of which sheallottedfor sundaes.
Since I’m the one who forgot to lock the door, Iallotsome of the blame for the break-in to myself.
Use allot whenever you’re assigning part of a task or object to a specific person or group.
To keep things fair, I’llallotone piece of chocolate to each of you.
You need toallota few days for relaxation, so you don’t get burned out.
Amusement parks can be expensive, so I’llalloteach family member $20 to spend however they wish.
I have toallotsome time for homework before I send the kids to bed.
He decided toallota piece of the farm for use as grazing land.
Is it a Lot or Alot or Alot? You Tell us!
Alot or A Lot Question #1
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is FALSE. “A lot” is used to quantify an item. On the other hand, “allot” means to assign a portion of something to a person or set aside a share.
A Lot vs. Alot Question #2
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is ALOT. “Alot” is a common misspelling of a lot.
Alot vs A Lot Question #3
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is C. “A lot” can be used as an adverb or a pronoun in a sentence.
Allot Question #4
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is VERB. “Allot” is a verb that means to give someone a share of an item or set aside part of a task.
A Lot or Alot Question #5
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is A. Use “a lot” whenever you want your reader to understand that you’re referring to a large quantity of something.
Alot Question #6
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. “Allot” means to assign or give a portion.
To wish someone well, the correct version is “Happy New Year!” without an ‘s.’
“New Years” isn’t correct because you can’t have more than one new year at a time (it happens once per year).
Use the possessive “New Year’s” to indicate a time, event, or item that belongs to the New Year (New Year’s Eve; New Year’s Day).
When referring to the specific holiday, capitalize the first letter of each word (“New Year”). This is because it’s acting as a proper noun.
Conversely, when referring to the upcoming year in general, use all lowercase letters and an article like ‘the’ or ‘a’ (I plan to eat more vegetables in the new year). This is because it’s acting as a common noun.
“New Year’s Eve” follows all the same rules as “New Year’s.”
The clock strikes midnight. The ball finishes its meandering descent down into Times Square, and you’re full to the brim with bubbly. Now it’s time to help usher in the next 365 days. But do you say “Happy New Year” or “Happy New Years?”
There’s only one “new year” at any given time, so make sure to greet your family and friends Happy New Year!
Write your cards the right way. We’ve also got tips regarding capitalization, pluralization, and which version you should never use.
Is it Correct to say “Happy New Year” or “Happy New Years”?
If you want to wish someone well, the correct phrase is “Happy New Year!” (no ‘s’). This is because there’s only one new year at any given time, so “year” is singular. If you want to make new year plural or talk about more than one new year at a time, use “New Years” (no apostrophe). If you want to talk about resolutions or something that belongs to the new year, use “New Year’s” with an apostrophe before the “s”. This is to show that New Year’s is possessive.
Let’s look a little closer at each use with easy examples.
1. “Happy New Year” and When to use it
While you may see several versions of this famous phrase, there are only two ways to use it correctly. It’s 11:59 pm on December 31st, and you turn to your BFF and get ready to yell “Happy New Year!”
Because there’s only one new year at any given time, “year” is singular.
Happy New Year, Patricia!
Tell your mom I saidhappy new year.
2. “New Years” and When to Use it
You may also say “New Year” minus the “happy” if you’re talking about the holiday in other ways. If you do that, watch your capitalization (more on that in a moment). For instance:
You can technically use the plural form of New Years any time you’re talking about more than one New Year. That’s not likely to happen, though, since you can only have one New Year at a time.
You can use the plural if you’re referencing the idea of new years in general (notice the lack of capitalization).
New yearsare the perfect time to wipe the slate clean, join a gym, and subscribe to weekly doughnut deliveries.
I have plans to move in thenew year.
3. “Happy New Year’s” and When to Use it
When the apostrophe shows up, it indicates possession.
Remember: Whatever comes after “New Year’s” belongs to the holiday.
In other words, whatever comes after “New Year’s” belongs to the holiday. Remember that “New Year’s” is almost always short for “New Year’s Eve” or “New Year’s Day.”
Happy New Year’sDay!
I’m making a ton ofNew Year’sresolutions.
My aunt’sNew Year’srecipes are full of bacon and happiness.
Even if you’re talking about multiple New Year’s parties, you will use the singular possessive. This is because you’re talking about several parties, each one belonging to a single year. For instance:
Of all theNew Year’scelebrations I’ve attended, this one is among the best.
New Years’are super fun, especially if there is live music and cheese.
Is There an Apostrophe in New Year’s Day?
Yes, there is an apostrophe in the phraseNew Year’s Day. Use this form for things belonging to the new year. In fact, the reason there is an apostrophe before the letter ‘s’ is to show possession. In other words, the apostrophe and the ‘s’ let you know that the day belongs to the new year. The same logic holds for New Year’s Eve. There is an apostrophe to show that the eve belongs to the new year.
What About “New Year’s Eve”?
“New Year’s Eve” follows all the same rules as “Happy New Year” and “New Year’s Day.”
The phrase is possessive because “Eve” belongs to “New Year’s.” Don’t forget the apostrophe!
The whole phrase should be capitalized because it’s referencing a specific holiday occurring on December 31st.
I just bought a glittery tux forNew Year’s Eve.
My friend’sNew Year’s Eveparty is always the highlight of the holiday season.
If you’re using it as a noun, write “New Year.” If you’re using it to refer to the upcoming year, just write “new year.”
Do You Capitalize “Happy New Year” in a Sentence?
Capitalize “New Year” when you’re referring to the specific holiday. Do the same for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. This is because these phrases are actually acting as proper nouns just like Valentine’s Day or Empire State Building (Enjoy your New Year holiday!). On the other hand, don’t capitalize new year when referring to the upcoming year in general, otherwise known as the 12 months starting on January 1st (I hope we’ll be able to travel more in the new year).
I’m making aNew Year’sresolution to eat more pie.
I want to eat a lot more pie in thenew year.
In the first example, the resolution is possessive (hence the apostrophe) and refers to the actual holiday. That means the capitalization is correct.
In the second example, the author is talking about eating more delicious coconut cream pie (because that’s the best flavor, obviously). He or she is going to eat that pie in the new year, not onNew Year’s Day or Eve. Therefore, there’s no need to capitalize it.
Pro Tip: Never capitalize “new year” if the articles “a” or “the” come before it.
We expect to see a lot more job opportunities inthe new year.
A new yearis just around the corner—time to make your resolutions!
How Long can you say Happy New Year?
As a general guideline, say Happy New Year during the first week of January. Despite your best intentions, this greeting might be irritating or seem insincere if you use it for longer. For example, you might wish a friend a Happy Birthday at her party. But the next time you see her, you probably won’t say it again. The same is true for saying Happy New Year. However, let’s say it’s late January and you haven’t seen the person since the new year started or haven’t wished him well yet. This is a situation that would allow you to say Happy New Year for longer than one week.
Don’t forget to greet your family and friends “Happy New Year!”
Ringing in the New Year Right
In conclusion, nobody wants to ruin the new year just as it starts. So, make sure that you begin it by using the correct greeting phrase on your cards and emails. Start by triple-checking your apostrophes. Also, don’t forget proper capitalization.
However, if you’re still confused, you may refer to our expert-approved examples of New Year’s/New Years below:
Happy New Year!
What band is playing at yourNew Year’sparty?
Happy New Year’s Eve!
Where will you be ringing in thenew year?
Black-eyed peas are supposed to bring you luck and prosperity if you eat them onNew Year’s Day.
I want to finish my taxes before thenew yeargets underway.
INK Happy New Year Infographic
Happy New Year Quick Grammar Quiz
Happy New Year Question #1
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is A. Year is singular here, so an ‘s’ is not necessary. Also, it doesn’t require an apostrophe because there’s no possession.
New Year Question #2
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. The word "eve" belongs to New Year. So, an apostrophe is required before the 's' to indicate a singular possessive.
Happy New Year Question #3
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is B. The sentence refers to a plural form of New Year; hence the additional s.
Question #4
Correct!Wrong!
The answer is TRUE. Only capitalize New Year when you’re using it as a proper noun in a sentence.
