Comma question
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As a result of this, this forum is now closed.
The English dictionary community team would like the opportunity to say a huge thanks to all of you who participated by posting questions and helping other community members.
We hope this forum was useful, and that you enjoyed being a part of it.
If you would like to get in touch with any OED-related queries, please write to
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And if you would like to contribute suggestions to the OED, please do so by visiting: https://public.oed.com/contribute-to-the-oed/
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Comma question
Hi, I have a question regarding comma usage that I can't find in any of the usual guides.
Take these two sentences: He did not shoot the man as he was told. Or, he did not shoot the man, as he was told.
Which means he was told to shoot, and which means he was told not to shoot.
Thanks for your help.
Take these two sentences: He did not shoot the man as he was told. Or, he did not shoot the man, as he was told.
Which means he was told to shoot, and which means he was told not to shoot.
Thanks for your help.
Comments
In both sentences he didn't shoot the man.
In the first sentence he was told to shoot him
In the second sentence he was told not to shoot him.
David, I think the first sentence could suggest the man had been shot.
He could have shot the man in the foot when he was told to shoot him in the head..."He did not shoot the man as he was told."
@jbroadstock128, the first sentence could be compatible with your scenario. But it couldn't suggest it.