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Hyphen
The hyphen ( - ) is used
a) to divide words of at least two syllables
which will not fit at the end of a line; the hyphen indicates that the
word is continued on the next line. Make sure that each part of the
divided word has at least two letters.
b) to show that certain compound words
function as a single word. Be sure to always check the dictionary if in
doubt.
Examples
Compound adjective (preceding a noun):
double-jointed
Compound noun: head-hunter
Compound verb: kick-boxing |
c) with certain combination words.
Be sure to check your dictionary.
d) with certain numbers and fractions.
1) Use a hyphen to spell out numbers from
twenty-one to ninety-nine.
2) Use a hyphen to spell out a fraction
when used as an adjective; hyphenation is not required when the fraction
is used as a noun.
Examples
Adjective: one-quarter full
Noun: The container had one quarter of
the liquid. |
e) in certain prefixes and suffixes.
1) Hyphenate a prefix with a capitalized
base word: un-American
2) Hyphenate a prefix with a date:
pre-1600
3) Hyphenate a single-letter prefix:
x-ray
4) Use a hyphen with all-, ex-,
self-, and -elect: all-knowing; ex-husband;
self-help; president-elect
5) Use a hyphen to separate an awkward
combination of letters: fall-like.
6) Use a hyphen to differentiate
between homonyms:
Recover - to get back; to
regain
Re-cover - to cover again |
|
Return to Writing
- Reading Center webpage
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