Comma Before Including
A comma before an “including” phrase is not automatic; punctuation can change whether the information is read as supplementary or restrictive. Chicago’s guidance makes the distinction depend on meaning, so avoid a mechanical rule that always inserts or always removes the comma.
Use commas around an “including” phrase when it is nonrestrictive or supplementary; omit the comma when the phrase is essential to identifying the intended set.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Chicago’s guidance makes the distinction depend on meaning, so avoid a mechanical rule that always inserts or always removes the comma.
Further guidance
Recommendation
Use commas around an “including” phrase when it is nonrestrictive or supplementary; omit the comma when the phrase is essential to identifying the intended set.
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.
- Commas Q&A: comma before including — CMOS (opens in a new tab)Chicago Manual of Style · Direct style guidance on restrictive versus nonrestrictive including phrases