Is there a Comma Before JR in AP Style?

In the realm of grammar and punctuation, even the tiniest details matter. So, here’s a burning question: is there supposed to be a comma before “Jr” in AP style? Whether you’re a writer, editor, or just someone with a curious mind, understanding the proper usage of commas before “Jr” can make a difference in your writing. To shed some light on this topic, we’ll explore the rules of AP style and unravel the mysteries of when and how to use that strategically placed comma.

But before we dive into the intricacies of punctuation, let’s take a moment to understand what “Jr” actually means. “Jr” is short for “junior” and is typically used to distinguish a person from their father, who shares the same name. It’s a way of honoring and carrying forward a family legacy. Additionally, we’ll find out what to call a girl with the same name as her mother and learn how to add the suffix “Jr” to a name. So, if you’re ready to untangle the conventions of AP style and discover the answers to some intriguing questions, let’s get started!

Is there a comma before JR AP style?

The Mystery of the Comma Before JR

If you’ve ever found yourself pondering the perplexing question of whether or not to include a comma before the abbreviation “JR” in AP style, fear not, my friend. You are not alone in this grammatical conundrum. Many writers have scratched their heads, furrowed their brows, and consulted their style guides in search of an answer. Well, the suspense ends here! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of AP style and unravel the truth about the elusive comma before “JR”.

The AP Style Guide Speaks

According to the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, the elusive comma before “JR” is not needed. That’s right – you can bid farewell to that little squiggly punctuation mark. The AP style gods have declared that when writing a name followed by “JR,” no comma should separate the two. It’s as simple as that. So, no matter how tempted you may be to insert that comma, resist the urge and embrace the comma-less beauty of AP style.

The Curious Case of John Doe JR

To illustrate this punctuation phenomenon, let’s imagine a gentleman by the name of John Doe Jr. In AP style, his name would be written as “John Doe Jr.” – sans comma. It may seem a bit strange at first, but trust in the wisdom of the AP style experts. They have diligently crafted these rules for optimal readability and consistency in journalistic writing. So, even if your inner grammarian protests, remember that sometimes rules are meant to be broken… or rather, not followed.

JR: The Unhindered Abbreviation

The lack of a comma before “JR” gives the abbreviation a sense of freedom, allowing it to flow seamlessly with the name that precedes it. Without the cumbersome comma interrupting the continuity, “JR” can proudly stand as an unencumbered testament to a family’s lineage. So, the next time you encounter a name adorned with a “JR,” resist that comma-craving temptation and let it stand tall and proud, just like its predecessor.

Conclusion: The Comma-Free Legacy

In the grand tapestry of language, punctuation holds immense power. That tiny dot, dash, or squiggle can alter the meaning, tone, and flow of our words. In the case of the comma before “JR” in AP style, its absence allows for a smoother reading experience while adhering to the guidelines set forth by the AP style authorities. So, embrace the comma-less legacy of AP style and let your writing soar, unencumbered by unnecessary punctuation.

FAQs: Is there a Comma Before Jr. in AP Style?


Do You Put a Comma After Jr. in a Sentence

No, you do not put a comma after Jr. in a sentence when following AP style. According to AP style, Jr. should be treated as part of a person’s last name and written without a comma.

Which of the Following Titles Should Never Be Abbreviated According to AP Style

AP style advises against abbreviating titles such as Mr., Mrs., and Ms. However, it is acceptable to use the abbreviation Dr. for doctor.

Is There a Comma Before Jr. in AP Style

In AP style, there is no comma before Jr. The comma should be omitted, treating Jr. as part of the person’s last name.

What Does Junior (Jr.) Mean

Junior, abbreviated as Jr., is used to indicate that a person shares the same name as their father. It is a term commonly used in English-speaking countries.

What Do You Call a Girl with the Same Name as Her Mother

A girl who shares the same name as her mother is traditionally referred to as “Junior,” or Jr. However, this practice is not as common as it used to be, and many families now use alternative naming traditions.

How Do You Add Jr. to a Name

To add Jr. to a name, you usually include it as part of the person’s last name. For example, if the father’s name is John Smith, his son’s name would be written as John Smith Jr. This signifies that the son is named after the father.


Feel free to explore these frequently asked questions regarding the usage of Jr. in AP style. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines will help ensure accurate and consistent writing. So, go ahead, Junior up and write with flair!

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