Is There a Comma After “Here”?

Understanding when to use commas can significantly impact the clarity and readability of your writing. The word “here” often poses questions about comma usage. This article explains when to use a comma after “here,” providing rules with correct and incorrect examples for clear guidance.

When to Use a Comma After “Here”

Rule 1: “Here” at the Beginning of a Sentence

Correct Usage:

• Here, the rules are strictly enforced.
• Here, we see the effects of climate change.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here the rules are strictly enforced.
• Here we see the effects of climate change.

Explanation: Starting a sentence with “here” followed by a comma can help introduce the statement or location being discussed, providing a pause for the reader.

Rule 2: “Here” to Introduce a List or Example

Correct Usage:

• Consider the following options: here, we have the most viable solutions.
• Look at these results: here, the data clearly shows a trend.

Incorrect Usage:

• Consider the following options here we have the most viable solutions.
• Look at these results here the data clearly shows a trend.

Explanation: When “here” introduces a list or example, a comma after “here” clarifies the separation between the introduction and the content that follows.

Rule 3: “Here” in Direct Address

Correct Usage:

• Here, Thomas, take a look at this.
• Here, you can see what I mean.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here Thomas, take a look at this.
• Here you can see what I mean.

Explanation: When directly addressing someone or something after “here,” a comma is used to separate the address from the rest of the sentence.

Rule 4: “Here” to Indicate a Pause for Emphasis

Correct Usage:

• Here, we must pause and consider the implications.
• Here, the distinction becomes clear.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here we must pause and consider the implications.
• Here the distinction becomes clear.

Explanation: Using “here” with a following comma can emphasize the point being made, indicating a pause for the reader to reflect.

Rule 5: “Here” Followed by a Conjunction

Correct Usage:

• Here, and in other regions, the policy applies.
• Here, but not everywhere, the rules differ.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here and in other regions, the policy applies.
• Here but not everywhere, the rules differ.

Explanation: When “here” is followed by a conjunction connecting it to another clause, a comma helps maintain clarity and separation of ideas.

Rule 6: “Here” in the Middle of a Sentence

Correct Usage:

• The results, here, are inconclusive.
• The problem lies, here, in the methodology.

Incorrect Usage:

• The results here are inconclusive.
• The problem lies here in the methodology.

Explanation: Enclosing “here” with commas in the middle of a sentence can add a parenthetical note or clarification without interrupting the main flow of the sentence.

Read More: Is There a Comma After “Specifically”?

Rule 7: “Here” for Dramatic Effect

Correct Usage:

• Now, here, we encounter a dilemma.
• And here, we find ourselves at a crossroads.

Incorrect Usage:

• Now here we encounter a dilemma.
• And here we find ourselves at a crossroads.

Explanation: A comma after “here” can be used to create a dramatic pause, enhancing the narrative or argumentative effect of the sentence.

Rule 8: “Here” Without a Comma for Immediate Action

Correct Usage:

• Here we go again.
• Here comes the train.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here, we go again.
• Here, comes the train.

Explanation: When “here” is used to indicate immediate action or presence, no comma is needed, allowing for a smoother flow of the action described.

Rule 9: “Here” in Informal Speech

Correct Usage:

• Here you go.
• Here we have an interesting case.

Incorrect Usage:

• Here, you go.
• Here, we have an interesting case.

Explanation: In informal speech or writing, “here” often does not require a comma, especially in common phrases or when presenting something directly.

Rule 10: “Here” When Referring to Physical Location

Correct Usage:

• Place the book here, on the table.
• Stand here, right next to me.

Incorrect Usage:

• Place the book here on the table.
• Stand here right next to me.

Explanation: When “here” specifies a physical location and is followed by additional descriptive information, a comma can help separate the location from the description.