Do you put a comma before “which” in a sentence? This is a common question among English learners, and understanding the correct usage of “which” with commas can greatly enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. In this article, we will explore the rules and exceptions surrounding the comma before “which” to help you master this aspect of the English language.
The comma before “which” is often referred to as the “non-restrictive relative clause comma.” It is used to set off a non-restrictive relative clause, which provides additional information about a noun but is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. In other words, the sentence would still make sense without the non-restrictive clause.
For example, consider the following sentence:
“The book which I borrowed from the library is fascinating.”
In this sentence, “which I borrowed from the library” is a non-restrictive relative clause that provides extra information about the book. The comma before “which” helps to separate this clause from the main part of the sentence, making it clear that the clause is additional and not essential to the overall meaning.
However, not all sentences with “which” require a comma. When “which” is used as a relative pronoun to introduce a restrictive relative clause, there is no need for a comma before it. A restrictive relative clause provides essential information about the noun and is necessary for the sentence to make sense.
For instance:
“The book which I borrowed from the library is on sale.”
In this sentence, “which I borrowed from the library” is a restrictive relative clause because it identifies the specific book being referred to. Without this clause, the sentence would be unclear, so no comma is needed before “which.”
There are a few exceptions to the comma rule with “which.” One exception is when “which” is used to introduce a non-restrictive relative clause that begins with a word like “because,” “since,” or “as.” In these cases, the comma comes after the word, not before “which.”
For example:
“I was late for work because, which I realized later, the bus was running late.”
In this sentence, the comma comes after “because” and not before “which,” even though “which” introduces a non-restrictive relative clause.
In conclusion, the comma before “which” is used to set off a non-restrictive relative clause that provides additional information. When “which” is used in a restrictive relative clause, there is no need for a comma. By understanding these rules and exceptions, you can effectively use “which” in your writing and ensure that your sentences are clear and grammatically correct.
