Still not sure how to use a hyphen correctly? When to use a hyphen FAQs What is a hyphen? A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words, forming compounds. Hyphens are not interchangeable with dashes. Hyphen vs. dashes While a hyphen is used to join wor...
How to Use a Hyphen in a Sentence In grammar, the most common use of a hyphen is if two words function together as an adjective before the noun they modify. These words are called hyphenated adjectives. You may also use it to divide a word with inadequate space in the line for the wh...
Prefixes are letters or words that attach to the beginning of a word to make a new word. Usually, we do not need to add hyphens after prefixes. However, some prefixes require a hyphen. When we use the prefix “ex-” to mean “former,” we use a hyphen. Ex- has several meanings as...
—a book, and as you write, you think, “I need one of those long dash, double hyphen things. What are those things called, again? And how do I make sure I use it correctly so I don't look like an idiot?” Let's look at what an em dash is and how to use one correctly. ...
Use an affix to create a new word that allows you to reduce your word count and smooth the flow of your sentence. Identify the affixes in a word to help with spelling it and decoding its meaning. Don't use a hyphen with a prefix, but if you can't bear how it looks, use one. ...
Rule 6.When using numbers, hyphenate spans or estimates of time, distance, or other quantities. Remember not to use spaces around hyphens. Examples: 3:15-3:45 p.m. 1999-2016 300-325 people Note: Most publishers use the slightly longeren dashinstead of a hyphen in this situation. ...
An adverb of manner tells us how an action occurs. The lion crawled stealthily. Will you come quietly, or do I have to use earplugs? (Comedian Spike Milligan) (NB: Lots of adverbs of manner end "-ly.") Adverb of Time(when or how often) An adverb of time tells us when an ...
The prefixes all-, ex-, and self- use a hyphen. an all-knowing deity my ex-partner a self-aware creature However, be careful with ex- because it has two different meanings—“out from,” and “in the past.” Use a hyphen only when the meaning of ex- is “former” or “in the...
When it comes to hyphens, prose is often in a state of disequilibrium: Sometimes there are too many, and sometimes there are too few, but careful writers
(Issue 3) Don't use a hyphen with an adverb ending "-ly." When an adverb ending -"ly" (and lots do) is modifying an adjective, don't use a hyphen to join it to the adjective. The hyphen is unjustified (in the interest of writing efficiency). ...