Comma

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BW2/3  #239824  Sun, 25 Jun 06 06:12 AM

What did she want,  then? or What did she want then? 

Me too or me, too.

Do they need comma?

Thank you

  
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CalifJim  #239829  Sun, 25 Jun 06 06:24 AM
I use as few commas as possible, so I would not use a comma in the first sentence.
However, as a sort of exception to my usual practice, I always use a comma before final too, although I'm told it isn't really needed.

CJ

  
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Likeguslee  #239849  Sun, 25 Jun 06 07:50 AM

Here are the basic rules for comma

 

The Comma (,)

The uses of the comma are:

  1. Separate a list of items
    i.e.: Apples, pears, bananas and grapes are fruit
  2. Indicates a word in apposition
    i.e.: The organisation, XYZ Enterprises, sends all members of staff on training at least once a year
  3. Used before or after a participle phrasing
    i.e.: Being in possession of a lottery ticket, you may stand a chance to win
  4. Indicate a slight pause
    i.e.: We have hardly had a summer in Gauteng, it has been overcast and rainy most days
  5. Separate an exclamation or an expression
    i.e.: Oh dear, is that you meant?
  6. Introduce direct speech
    i.e.: The speaker said, "The comma is used to introduce direct speech."
  7. Ellipsis
    i.e.: Crips may be eaten too frequently; popcorn, too seldom
  8. Used to indicate parenthesis*
    (whether it be related or non-related) i.e.: English Word Power, an interactive English language development software, helps to develop ones skills to effectively communicate in English.

Regarding your examples, none of them would require a comma.

  
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julielai  #239952  Sun, 25 Jun 06 08:49 PM

Hi Likeguslee,

Do you mind giving us the source so we can read more on the subject if we want to? Thanks! Smile [:)]

  
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Inchoateknowledge  #239960  Sun, 25 Jun 06 09:45 PM
In both cases the use of comma is justifiable; however, I would never use one in with  'me too'.
  
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Grammar Geek  #239963  Sun, 25 Jun 06 09:54 PM

In the first sentence, it depends on how you're using "then." If you're using it to show sequence (the second example below), I'd definitely leave it out. But if you're using it as in the first example, it's optional.

A: She called to ask you about the homework, didn't she.

B: No, that's not why she called.

A: It isn't? Well, what did she want, then?

VERSUS

A: The first month, she wanted a mink coat, then a set of pearls... and the next month... you won't believe it!

B: Good heavens! What did she want then?

  
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