Fused Sentence
Fused sentences are one form of run-on construction. They differ from comma splices: a fused sentence has no suitable boundary punctuation between the independent clauses, while a comma splice uses a comma alone.
A fused sentence joins independent clauses with no appropriate punctuation or connecting word. Repair it by separating the clauses, using a semicolon where appropriate, or adding a coordinator/subordinator that expresses the intended relationship.
Key details
Important caveats
Boundary
Do not call every long sentence a run-on. Length is not the test; the independent-clause boundary is.
Further guidance
Diagnostic
Check whether each side can stand as an independent clause. If two independent clauses are simply placed together without an appropriate connector or punctuation mark, the result is fused.
Repair Options
Use a period, a semicolon when the relationship supports it, or a comma plus coordinating conjunction; subordination can also work when one idea should depend on the other.
Worked Example
Fused: “The meeting ended we sent the notes.” Repair: “The meeting ended, and we sent the notes.” A coordinator now marks the clause boundary.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Run-ons, Comma Splices, and Fused Sentences — Purdue OWL (opens in a new tab)Purdue Online Writing Lab · University writing-center guidance defining comma splices and showing standard repairs for independent clauses.
- Run-ons, Comma Splices, and Fused Sentences Exercise (opens in a new tab)Purdue Online Writing Lab · Purdue treats fused sentences alongside but distinctly from comma splices, supporting a separate diagnostic/repair intent from the project’s existing Comma Splice guide.