Hyphens

Front

What is a hyphen?

Back

A hyphen is a punctuation mark (-) used to join words or parts of words together, such as in compound words or to indicate a break in a word at the end of a line.

Front

When should you use a hyphen in compound adjectives?

Back

Use a hyphen in compound adjectives when they precede a noun, e.g., 'well-known author'.

Front

Provide an example of a compound word that uses a hyphen.

Back

An example of a compound word that uses a hyphen is 'mother-in-law'.

Front

What is the difference between a hyphen and a dash?

Back

A hyphen (-) connects words, while a dash (–) indicates a pause or range.

Front

How do you use hyphens with numbers?

Back

Hyphens are used in compound numbers from twenty-one to ninety-nine and in fractions used as adjectives, e.g., 'two-thirds'.

Front

What is a common mistake when using hyphens?

Back

A common mistake is using a hyphen where a space or no punctuation is needed, such as in 'email'.

Front

When should you not use a hyphen?

Back

Do not use a hyphen when the words are not functioning together as a single adjective, e.g., 'the author is well known'.

Front

What is the rule for hyphenating prefixes?

Back

Generally, do not hyphenate prefixes unless they precede a proper noun or create ambiguity, e.g., 're-enter'.

Front

How do you hyphenate compound adjectives after a noun?

Back

Do not hyphenate compound adjectives when they follow the noun, e.g., 'the author is well known'.

Front

What is the purpose of a hyphen in a sentence?

Back

The purpose of a hyphen is to clarify meaning by linking words or parts of words.