1. Writing Effective Sentences Lesson 8

2. Internal phrases Phrases that appear in the middle of a sentence are subject to the same restrictive/nonrestrictive test that applies to ending phrases; if they are not essential (nonrestrictive), they are set off with commas.

3.  ExampleNonrestrictive Phrases Omaha, ( in the midst ( of a major recession, ) is searching for new sources of revenue.  ExampleRestrictive Phrases Any city ( in the midst ( of a major recession ) has to search for new sources of revenue.  ExampleNonrestrictive Phrases President Mason, ( anticipating approval, ) went ahead with my plan.  ExampleRestrictive Phrases All presidents ( anticipating approval ) went ahead with my plan.

4. Application 8-1 Decide which of the internal phrases in these sentences are nonrestrictive (not essential). Set those phrases off with commas. Do not place commas in the sentences that contain restrictive phrases. 1. Our expenses in maintaining these rentals are getting out of hand. 2. Those teachers hoping for additional funds will be disappointed. 3. The new rules in spite of the group’s efforts go into effect now. 4. This year’s new cars according to the latest survey are selling well.,,,, ok

5. Phrases Used as Nouns Gerund phrases are similar to participial phrases in that they are introduced by words that end in ing. You need to know the difference between these two kinds of phrases if you want to punctuate them correctly.

6. Because gerund phrases act as nouns, they are not set off with commas as participial often are:  Gerund Phrase ( Working long hours ) is not fun.  Participial Phrase ( Working long hours, ) she had no time for fun.

7. The same principle applies when infinitive phrases act as nouns:  Infinitive Phrase as Noun ( To stop safely ) requires good brakes.  Infinitive Phrase ( To stop safely, ) you will need good brakes.

8. Application 8-2 In the following sentences insert a comma after beginning participial or infinitive phrases. Do not insert a comma what beginning infinitive phrases used at nouns. 1. Breaking the routine she went to work before 9 o’clock. 2. Following his advice is a wise course for you to take. 3. Showing up early became a habit with me. 4. Entering the store by the back door Mr. Clark surprised all of us. 5. Walking in the park will be good for them.,, ok