Question #N445
The word "which" is used in this sentence to connect two independent clauses. The first clause states that "the cat jumped on the table." The second clause states that "the cat knocked over a vase." What is the purpose of the comma in this sentence?
The comma in the sentence is used to
A. separate the two independent clauses.
B. indicate a list of items.
C. introduce a quote.
D. set off a nonessential phrase.
Correct Answer is: A
A comma is used to separate two independent clauses when they are joined by a coordinating conjunction. In this sentence, the comma separates the two independent clauses, "the cat jumped on the table" and "the cat knocked over a vase," which are joined by the coordinating conjunction "which."