Which sentence uses a comma in a way that is considered contested usage?

Question

Select two correct answers.
(1 point)
Stephen did not understand the question, and so Gina tried to explain it to him more clearly.
Zagreb, Sarajevo, and Dubrovnik are all major cities in the Balkan region of eastern Europe.
• We are passing through New Orleans, Louisiana right before we stop in Houston, Texas.
• Faith, Millie's best friend from summer camp, is coming to visit in a few weeks.
• Winston Churchill famously said, "It is not in our power to anticipate our destiny."

Answer 1

The two sentences that use a comma in a way that is considered contested usage are:

1. Stephen did not understand the question, and so Gina tried to explain it to him more clearly. - The use of the comma before "and so" is contested because some style guides suggest that a comma is only necessary when "and so" introduces a new independent clause.

2. We are passing through New Orleans, Louisiana right before we stop in Houston, Texas. - The comma usage before "Louisiana" is technically correct; however, there can be discussions regarding the use of a comma before "right before" as well.

While both sentences use commas correctly according to some conventions, their usage can be questioned or debated in some contexts, making them potentially contested.