comma before 'and' [conjunction]: shoots them a glance and they

Rabelaisian

Senior Member
English - Canadian
So the rule is to put a comma before a conjunction, in this case and, when it separates two independent clauses. But what if the writer prefers the brisk smoothness of not putting that comma in, in certain cases? For example:

He shoots them a deadly glance and they eventually get a grip on themselves.

Is that kind of rule-breaking okay?

Thanks.
 
  • The rule is that usually, or often, a comma is used before the "and"—not always. It depends on the sentence and how it would likely be spoken. A comma suggests a pause. In the sentence you give as an example, I'd place a comma after "glance".
     
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