The parts of a compound element are generally separated by the comma unless all the conjunctions are expressed. If the conjunction is used between the last two elements, the comma also is used; thus, Men, women, and children hurried down the street.

If all conjunctions are expressed, no comma is generally used; thus, Wheat and rye and other European grains are raised there.

If the parts of a compound element are connected in pairs, the pairs only are separated; thus, She welcomed old and young, rich and poor.

The parts of a compound predicate, if long and unlike in form, are often separated by the comma even if the conjunctions are expressed; thus, The Northern Democrats nominated Douglas, and were not yet ready to give up squatter sovereignty.

Exercise 101

Analyze the following sentences and explain the punctuation :

1. She hurried along the road, through the field, and into the wood.

2. A group of soldiers came in, lit a fire, and sat down.

3. Sir Guy visited Germany, Lombardy, and Spain.

4. The day was rainy, windy, and cold.

5. The day was rainy and windy and cold.

6. Cromwell was a rough, rude, brawny soldier.

7. Come up with me, and eat the best of venison.

8. Perseus blushed and stammered and looked down.

9. She was good and sensible, graceful and beautiful, and made the English people an excellent queen.