Commas and Clause Structure
A preceding dependent clause takes a comma before the main clause. A following integrated dependent clause usually does not; inserted and supplementary clauses have separate punctuation rules.
How It Works
An opening dependent clause ends with a comma: Ako bude kiše, ostat ćemo kod kuće. When the clause follows and is integrated into the main statement, no comma is needed: Ostat ćemo kod kuće ako bude kiše.
An inserted clause is bounded on both sides: Ana će, ako stigne, navratiti. Supplementary relatives also use commas because they add information about an already identified referent. Identifying relatives normally remain unseparated.
Coordination has different rules. Genuine contrast with ali normally has a comma, while ordinary addition with i normally does not. Before nego, distinguish contrast from an integrated comparison or the additive pair ne samo… nego i.
Examples (3)
- Kad završi sastanak, nazvat ću te.
When the meeting ends, I will call you.
- Nazvat ću te kad završi sastanak.
I will call you when the meeting ends.
- Petra će, ako stigne, donijeti kolač.
Petra will bring a cake if she has time.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Clause boundaries and coordination provide the structure needed to choose commas.
Related Patterns
Practice Commas and Clause Structure in Bubblegum
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