Hyphen definition and examples
- hyphens in writing
- hyphen in writing examples
- hyphen in writing meaning
- hyphen in writing numbers
When to use a hyphen in a sentence instead of comma!
A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark that joins related words together to create compound words like:
- follow-up
- up-to-date
- full-time (adjective only)
- father-in-law
- five-year-old
- sugar-free
It clarifies word meaning, forms new ideas, and allows writers to use language in a cool, creative way.
10 sentences with hyphen
Hyphens can also indicate when a word is cut off, either at the end of a line or because someone stops speaking abruptly. (“Have you seen the pineapple mons-”)
So when is a hyphen actually necessary, when is it optional, and when don’t you need one at all?
When To Use a Hyphen
While some situations can include a hyphen, there are several occasions when you need to use a hyphen to be grammatically correct.
For example:
- to join two adjectives that come before a noun to show they are related
- to join prefixes and suffixes to a root word
- in written out numbers and fractions
- to clear up any confusion between similar words
Each of these cases is explained in more detail with examples below.
Don't let that hyphen trick you.
How To Use a Hyphen in Compound Words
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- using hyphens in writing
- hyphens in legal writing