English Grammar

Question 1

Comma Splice

Answer 1

an instance of using a comma to link two independent clauses (which should instead be linked by a colon, semicolon, or conjunction), as in he loves cooking, he’s great at making curries.

Question 2

Run-on sentence / fused sentence

Answer 2

A run-on sentence occurs when two independent clauses run together without proper punctuation or appropriate conjunctions. Incorrect: Helen cooked dinner therefore Ralph will wash the dishes. Correct: Helen cooked dinner; therefore, Ralph will wash the dishes.

Question 3

Sentence fragments

Answer 3

A sentence fragment is a sentence that is missing either its subject or its main verb. Incorrect: Went to the store yesterday.

Question 4

Passive voice

Answer 4

In a sentence using passive voice, the subject is acted upon; he or she receives the action expressed by the verb. The agent performing the action may appear in a “by the…” phrase or may be omitted. The ball was thrown by the pitcher.

Question 5

Active voice

Answer 5

In active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action. Carmen sings the song.

Question 6

Parallel structure

Answer 6

Parallel structure is used in sentences to promote readability as well as to create a common level of importance between ideas. In this sentence, a series of verbs are presented in parallel structure: Parallel: Her children like to swim, hike and ride dirt bikes. NOT parallel: Her children like to swim, hike, and riding dirt bikes.