Although and comma

[Freeguy]

Look at this sentence. (Came from Cambridge) Do we need a comma If we want to use "although" at the first of the sentence? I think so. Because although shows a contrast and is used for dependent and independent clauses. If not, what's the reason?


- Although most people pass their Proficiency exam first time round a number of candidates will, sadly, fail.

 

[Rover_KE]

There is no reason to use a comma after 'although' in this context.

 

[Freeguy]

So why we use comma in most of the context that contains although? What's the difference between them and this example?
Why can't we write:

Although most people pass their Proficiency exam, first time round a number of candidates will,sadly, fail.

 

[charliedeut]

So why we use comma in most of the context that contains although?

Could you please provide examples of that?

 

[Rover_KE]

Are you talking about putting a comma after the word 'although', or at the end of the clause beginning with 'although'?

 

[Freeguy]

1. Although in poor health, she continued to carry out her duties.
2. We decided to take rooms in Longwood House, although we knew we could not really afford the rent.
3. Although I can't help admiring the man's courage, I do not approve of his methods.

Considering these examples, shouldn't we write:
Although most people pass their Proficiency exam, first time round a number of candidates will,sadly, fail.

 

[Rover_KE]

I could accept a comma after 'first time round' but not where you have put it.

It still looks and sounds right to me without the comma, though.

 

[MikeNewYork]

My problem with the sentence is that it is unclear where "first time round" belongs. Do most candidates pass the "first time round" or do a number of candidates fail "first time round"? In either case, the comma is critical. I just don't know where to put it.

Although most people pass their Proficiency exam first time round, a number of candidates will, sadly, fail.
Although most people pass their Proficiency exam, first time round a number of candidates will, sadly, fail.

Two different meanings.

 

[bhaisahab]

You say, Freeguy, that the sentence "came from Cambridge". Which particular publication?

 

[Freeguy]

Punctuation and grammar drive me nuts at times.

 

[Freeguy]

http://www.flo-joe.co.uk/cpe/students/strategy/openclze/conj.htm
No.3

This website belongs to Cambridge. It uploads some of its latest CAE and CPE exams.

 

[bhaisahab]

I agree with Rover, it's fine as it is. It would also be OK with a comma after "round".