Comma splice
The term "comma splice" refers to a comma that is used to incorrectly join two independent clauses, thereby creating a run-on sentence.
For example:
- The storm howled in the night, the children hid in their beds.
("The storm howled in the night" and "the children hid in their beds" are independent clauses)
To avoid a comma splice, insert a semicolon between the two independent clauses or use a coordinating conjunction that is preceded by a comma.
- The storm howled in the night; the children hid in their beds.
- The storm howled in the night, and the children hid in their beds.
For more information on punctuating sentences and avoiding comma splices, please see Punctuating sentences: Commas, semicolons, and colons.