The hyphen ‐ is a punctuation mark used to join words and to separate syllables of a single word. The use of hyphens is called hyphenation. [1]

Hyphens' main purpose is to glue words together. Compound verbs are either hyphenated or appear as one word. If you do not find the verb in the dictionary, hyphenate it.

Nov 22, 2024 · Generally, use a hyphen to create a compound modifier if it comes before the noun it modifies, and use hyphens in a permanent compound if the dictionary lists it as spelled that way.

Two words brought together as a compound may be written separately, written as one word, or connected by hyphens. For example, three modern dictionaries all have the same listings for the …

Mar 11, 2022 · What is a hyphen? A hyphen is a punctuation mark that is often used to form compound words. A hyphen resembles a small horizontal line (-). Besides being used to form compound words, …

6 days ago · hyphen, punctuation mark (-) used to connect word elements that are written disjointedly or to divide a word at the end of a line of text.

Mar 6, 2025 · When using the prefixes ex-, self-, and all-, hyphens are essential for clarity and proper meaning. Each of these prefixes has specific rules for when a hyphen is necessary, and …

However, hyphens are becoming less common and people often write several of the above words without hyphens or do not separate compound words at all. A common word with a hyphen such as …

Jul 10, 2025 · By exploring the rules, examples, and common pitfalls associated with hyphens, you’ll gain the confidence to use them effectively in your writing. A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark that …

Mar 15, 2025 · Learn when and how to use hyphens correctly in your writing. Discover how to break up sentences with hyphens, and the explanation of longer hyphens.