Understanding when to use a comma before “like” can be tricky but is essential for clear and correct writing. “Like” can function in various ways, including as a preposition, a conjunction, or even colloquially as a filler word.
The rules for comma usage before “like” depend on its function in the sentence. Here are guidelines with examples to help you navigate these waters.
When to Use a Comma Before “Like”
Rule 1: Comparing Similarities
When “like” is used to compare similarities between two things, a comma is generally not needed.
Correct Usage:
- She sings like an angel.
- He runs like the wind.
Incorrect Usage:
- She sings, like an angel.
- He runs, like the wind.
Explanation: In these cases, “like” introduces a comparison without starting a new independent clause, so a comma is not necessary.
Rule 2: Starting a Sentence
If “like” begins a sentence followed by a dependent clause or phrase, no comma is needed immediately after “like.”
Correct Usage:
- Like many of her peers, she prefers online classes.
Incorrect Usage:
- Like, many of her peers, she prefers online classes.
Explanation: Here, “like” introduces a prepositional phrase that modifies the main clause, and no comma is needed.
Rule 3: Introducing Examples
When “like” is used to introduce examples within a sentence, a comma before “like” can clarify that the following list is illustrative, not exhaustive.
Correct Usage:
- I enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, and swimming.
Incorrect Usage:
- I enjoy outdoor activities like, hiking, biking, and swimming.
Explanation: A comma before “like” indicates the start of a non-essential clause providing examples.
Rule 4: Before Parenthetical Expressions
If “like” precedes a parenthetical expression—a non-essential word, phrase, or clause—it should be followed by a comma.
Correct Usage:
- It’s going to rain, like, any minute now.
Incorrect Usage:
- It’s going to rain like any minute now.
Explanation: When “like” is used colloquially as a filler or to introduce a parenthetical expression, it is often followed by a comma.
Read More: Is There a Comma After “Unfortunately”?
Rule 5: Clarifying a Pause or Break
Use a comma before “like” if it helps to clarify a pause or break in thought, particularly in informal or conversational writing.
Correct Usage:
- He said, like, “Why are you late?”
Incorrect Usage:
- He said like “Why are you late?”
Explanation: The comma mirrors a natural pause in speech, often seen in direct speech or colloquial language.
Rule 6: Separating Clauses
When “like” is used in a way that separates two independent clauses without a conjunction, a comma before “like” might be necessary.
Correct Usage:
- She acts as the leader, like she owns the place.
Incorrect Usage:
- She acts as the leader like she owns the place.
Explanation: In this case, the comma clarifies that “like she owns the place” is an additional, separate comment on the main clause.
Rule 7: Avoiding Misreading
Use a comma if it helps avoid misreading, especially when “like” precedes a substantial phrase or clause.
Correct Usage:
- In crowded markets, like those found in the city, you can find unique goods.
Incorrect Usage:
- In crowded markets like those found in the city, you can find unique goods.
Explanation: The comma sets off a phrase providing additional information and helps prevent confusion.
Rule 8: Nonrestrictive Phrases
When “like” introduces a nonrestrictive phrase, which adds extra information about a noun without limiting its meaning, use a comma.
Correct Usage:
- My favorite book, like yours, is a mystery novel.
Incorrect Usage:
- My favorite book like yours is a mystery novel.
Explanation: The comma indicates that the information is supplementary and not essential to the sentence’s main point.
Rule 9: As a Filler Word
In dialogue or quotes capturing colloquial speech, a comma can be used before “like” when it serves as a filler word.
Correct Usage:
- “I was, like, so surprised,” she explained.
Incorrect Usage:
- “I was like so surprised,” she explained.
Explanation: The comma helps to convey the speaker’s pause and the informal nature of the statement.
Rule 10: Complex Lists or Descriptions
When “like” precedes a complex list or description, especially if it introduces a shift in the sentence’s focus, a comma can help readability.
Correct Usage:
- You’ll need gear, like a tent, sleeping bag, and boots, for the trip.
Incorrect Usage:
- You’ll need gear like a tent, sleeping bag, and boots for the trip.
Explanation: The commas around the list introduced by “like” clarify that the list is an elaboration of the gear needed.
Dariel Campbell is currently an English instructor at a university. She has experience in teaching and assessing English tests including TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG. With over a decade of teaching expertise, Dariel Campbell utilizes his knowledge to develop English lessons for her audience on English Overview.
