The Tiny Mark That Sparks Big Debates

What is the Oxford Comma?

The Oxford comma, also known as the serial comma, is one of the most debated punctuation marks in the English language. It appears before the final item in a list, just before the conjunction (usually “and” or “or”).

• (Ex.) I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

In this sentence, the Oxford comma comes after “oranges.”

Some critics argue this comma is often unnecessary and clutters writing, especially when the meaning is already clear.

Why Is the Oxford Comma Important?

While this comma may seem like a minor detail, the presence (or absence) of this tiny mark can dramatically alter the meaning of a sentence. Without it, readers might misinterpret the sentence—especially when the items in the list are complex or could logically be grouped together.

Ex. 1

Ex.2

Ex.3

Without Oxford comma: “The report was prepared by the marketing department, John and Sarah.”
-This suggests that John and Sarah are part of the marketing department.

With Oxford comma: “The report was prepared by the marketing department, John, and Sarah.”
-This version clarifies that John and Sarah are separate contributors.

Consistency Is Key

Ultimately, the Oxford comma is a matter of style preference. The use of this comma is standard in American English and is often used in formal writing to avoid ambiguity. However, this comma is less common in British English and is typically reserved for cases where clarity is needed. Whether you choose to use the Oxford comma or not, it is important to remain consistent throughout your entire document.

At OWL, we recommend using the Oxford comma.

If you’re unsure whether to use the Oxford comma, consider these factors:

• Clarity: Does omitting the comma make the sentence unclear or open to multiple interpretations?
• Consistency: Are you writing in a style guide that requires (or forbids) the Oxford comma? For example, the Chicago Manual of Style recommends it, while the Associated Press (AP) style does not.

Note: OWL values clarity and brevity in communicating your story to diverse stakeholders. For this reason, we use the Oxford comma, even though we follow the AP Stylebook.

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Jessica Azumaya

Writer/Editor ： One World Link, Inc.

One World Link (OWL) specializes in delivering precise and effective English translations for corporate communication. With over 14 years of experience in investor relations and corporate communications, OWL helps Japanese companies build stronger relationships with global investors. From earnings reports and financial statements to executive messages and ESG narratives, OWL provides accurate and professional translations tailored to the needs of publicly traded companies. By providing clear and effective corporate messaging, OWL helps bridge communication gaps and foster trust and understanding between Japanese companies and global stakeholders. One World Link offers free English business writing assessments for publicly disclosed English materials. To request a free assessment, visit https://oneworldlink.jp/satei.php#contact or call 03-5534-9011.

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