When do i use a hyphen

When do you need to use a hyphen for compound words? General Principle 1 If a compound adjective can be misread, use a hyphen. General Principle 2 In a temporary compound that is used as an adjective before a noun, use a hyphen if the term can be misread or if the term expresses a single thought i.

For example: "the adolescents resided in two parent homes" means that two homes served as residences, whereas if the adolescents resided in "two-parent homes," they each would live in a household headed by two parents. A properly placed hyphen helps the reader understand the intended meaning. Also use hyphens for Compounds in which the base word is capitalized: pro-Freudian a number: post an abbreviation: pre-UCS trial more than one word: non-achievement-oriented students All "self-" compounds whether they are adjectives or nouns self-report self-esteem the test was self-paced Exception: self psychology Words that could be misunderstood re-pair [pair again] re-form [form again] un-ionized Words in which the prefix ends and the base word begins with the same vowel meta-analysis anti-intellectual co-occur.

Co-respondent without the hyphen could be confused with correspondent. Always use a hyphen with the prefixes all-, ex-, and self-, and with the suffix -elect. Use a hyphen with all compound numbers between twenty-one through ninety-nine, and when writing fractions as words.

The Hyphen. Divide a word between syllables. Never divide a one-syllable word. Correct: For effective proofreading, certain strategies are recom- mended. Incorrect: After taking the workshop on proofreading, it really se- ems that I am better at editing my own papers. Do not divide a word between syllables if only one letter remains alone or if only two letters begin a line. Incorrect: It was difficult to determine whether she was totally a- fraid of the dark or just trying to gain sympathy.

Always divide a hyphenated compound word at the hyphen. Incorrect: She was relieved to have the innocuous title of pres- ident-elect rather than to have real responsibility. Correct: She was relieved to have the innocuous title of president- elect rather than to have real responsibility. Divide compound words between the words that form the compound. Incorrect: For Steve's birthday, Annie bought him an electric cof- feemaker.

We always need hyphens with the prefixes anti- and self- : I'm a self-motivated person. Move in an anti-clockwise direction. For clarity Hyphens can be used to clarify confusing or awkward combinations, like shell-like or de-ice. Follow us. Share with Friends. What is the difference between 'complement' and 'compliment'?

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