Run-on sentence

Definition

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are incorrectly joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunctions. This type of sentence can create confusion for readers, making it hard to follow the intended meaning. Understanding run-on sentences is crucial in grammar and punctuation because they disrupt the flow of writing and clarity in communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Run-on sentences often result from the incorrect use of conjunctions or lack of proper punctuation between independent clauses.
2. There are two main types of run-on sentences: fused sentences, where clauses are joined without any punctuation, and comma splices, where only a comma is used between them.
3. To fix a run-on sentence, you can separate the independent clauses into individual sentences, use a semicolon, or add coordinating conjunctions with commas.
4. Run-on sentences can make writing appear careless and unprofessional, affecting the overall effectiveness of communication.
5. Identifying and correcting run-on sentences is essential for improving clarity and coherence in both academic and professional writing.

Review Questions

• How can recognizing run-on sentences improve overall writing quality?
  • Recognizing run-on sentences helps improve writing quality by promoting clearer communication. When writers identify these errors, they can revise their work to ensure each idea is expressed clearly and succinctly. This attention to sentence structure enhances the reader's understanding and makes the writing more engaging and professional.
• What strategies can be employed to correct a run-on sentence effectively?
  • Effective strategies for correcting run-on sentences include breaking them into separate sentences, using semicolons to connect closely related clauses, or incorporating coordinating conjunctions like 'and' or 'but' with proper punctuation. These techniques help clarify the relationships between ideas while maintaining the flow of the text. Additionally, revising for conciseness can also prevent run-ons by ensuring only essential information is included.
• Evaluate the impact of run-on sentences on business communication and provide examples of how they might be perceived by stakeholders.
  • Run-on sentences can significantly impact business communication by creating confusion and misinterpretation among stakeholders. For example, an unclear message in an email may lead to misunderstandings about project deadlines or responsibilities. Stakeholders might perceive the writer as unprofessional or careless if their communication lacks clarity due to run-ons. Therefore, maintaining clear and concise language is vital for effective business interactions and fostering positive relationships.

Related terms

Independent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, capable of standing alone as a sentence.

Comma Splice: An error that occurs when two independent clauses are joined by just a comma, which is insufficient punctuation.

Complex Sentence: A sentence that combines an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses, providing more information and detail.