Punctuation "as well as"

[SilviaLM]

Hi,
My question is if there is a comma in the following sentence sample. I would greatly appreciate it if you refer me to a specific rule in an online punctuation guide, so that I can understand the punctuation logic better.

The sentence:
They may entertain their families and friends as well as a couple of unfamiliar people.

My question:
Should there be a comma before 'as well as'.


If you had an even simpler sentence, such as "I bought apples and pears as well as oranges," would you use a comma in this list?

Thank you!

[bhaisahab]

Hi,
My question is if there is a comma in the following sentence sample. I would greatly appreciate it if you refer me to a specific rule in an online punctuation guide, so that I can understand the punctuation logic better.

The sentence:
They may entertain their families and friends as well as a couple of unfamiliar people.

My question:
Should there be a comma before 'as well as'. I would use one, some wouldn't.


If you had an even simpler sentence, such as "I bought apples and pears as well as oranges," would you use a comma in this list? It depends on the context.

Thank you!

Bhai.

[SilviaLM]

Thanks, bhaisahab.



If anyone can refer me to an online grammar and punctuation guide which explains the option to use a comma in this case, I will greatly appreciate it.

Thank you.

[emsr2d2]

Given that bhaisahab's answer shows that there is no "rule" - some people would use a comma and some wouldn't, and context is important - you're not going to find it in a guide book.

Is there a reason that you need an online punctuation and grammar guide to advise you, if you are receiving the answers you need on this forum?

[TheParser]

I would greatly appreciate it if you refer me to a specific rule in an online punctuation guide

***** NOT A TEACHER *****


Hello,


I do not know how to link. I apologize.

Please go to Google. Then type in these words:

As well as Comma Grammar Rules

*****

That website should be the second result on the page. It is an excellent one-page summary of the rules. Thanks for asking

this question. I learned a lot.


James

P.S. IF (!) I understood those rules in that one-page article, neither of your sentences needs a comma.