Pronunciation: [ˈɒksfəd kˈɒmə] (IPA) 
The Oxford comma refers to a comma used after the penultimate item in a list. It is known in British English as the serial comma. The spelling of "Oxford comma" is /ˈɒksfəd ˈkɒmə/. The first syllable, "ox", is pronounced as in the word "box", with a short "o" sound. The second syllable, "ford", is pronounced as in the word "lord". The word "comma" is pronounced with a short "o" sound and an "uh" sound at the end.
The Oxford comma, also referred to as the serial comma or Harvard comma, is a punctuation mark that is used to separate items in a list. It is placed before the conjunction (usually 'and' or 'or') that precedes the final item in a list of three or more items. It is particularly employed in English language usage, incorporating British English style guidance.
The main purpose of the Oxford comma is to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity in a sentence. By using this comma, each item in the list becomes distinct and unambiguous. It provides a clear separation between the final item in the list and the conjunction, making it easier for readers to comprehend the sentence's intended meaning.
For example, consider the sentence: "I went to the park with my parents, John, and Jane." In this instance, the Oxford comma makes it clear that the speaker is referring to three separate entities: their parents, John, and Jane. Without the Oxford comma, the sentence could potentially be interpreted as the speaker's parents being John and Jane.
The use of the Oxford comma can be subjective and depends on the style guide or personal preference. Proponents of this comma argue that it eliminates ambiguity and aids in maintaining consistency and clarity. However, opponents contend that it can be redundant and disrupt the flow of a sentence. Ultimately, the use of the Oxford comma is a matter of choice and is often a subject of debate among writers.
The term "Oxford comma" refers to the comma used before the conjunction "and" in a list of three or more items. It is also known as the serial comma. The word "Oxford" in "Oxford comma" has its roots in the style guide published by Oxford University Press called "The Oxford Style Manual". This manual promotes the use of the serial comma in writing. Hence, the name "Oxford comma" became synonymous with this specific comma usage.
