Dashes Hyphens and Slashes

Yes, hyphens can be used in idioms, particularly when they help clarify meaning or improve readability. However, it's important to use them correctly and consistently. For example, "run-of-the-mill" is a hyphenated idiom that means something is average or ordinary. Overall, whether to use hyphens depends on the specific idiom and the context in which it is used.

No, "full spectrum" is not hyphenated when used as a noun phrase. However, it can be hyphenated as "full-spectrum" when used as an adjective before a noun, such as in "full-spectrum lighting." The hyphen helps clarify that "full" modifies "spectrum" together as a single descriptive term.

Yes, there is a hyphen between "non" and "melodic" when used as a prefix. The correct term is "non-melodic." The hyphen helps clarify that "non" negates the adjective "melodic," indicating something that lacks melody.

No, "reassigned" does not need to be hyphenated. The prefix "re-" is commonly used with verbs and is typically not hyphenated unless it precedes a proper noun or creates confusion. Therefore, "reassigned" is correctly written as one word.

"Dress-up" is typically hyphenated when used as a noun or adjective, such as in "dress-up party" or "dress-up clothes." However, when used as a verb, it is written as two separate words: "dress up." The hyphenation helps clarify the meaning in certain contexts.

No, "well liked" does not need a hyphen. It is an adjective phrase where "well" modifies "liked," and they are commonly used together without a hyphen. Hyphens are typically used in compound adjectives that precede a noun, but in this case, "well liked" is used as a predicate adjective or after the noun.

Yes, "result-oriented" is typically hyphenated when used as a compound adjective before a noun, such as in "result-oriented approach." The hyphen helps clarify that the two words work together to modify the noun.

No, "world leader" is not hyphenated. It is typically written as two separate words when used as a noun phrase. However, if used as a compound adjective before a noun, it can be hyphenated as "world-leader status."

The hyphen in "co-operative" is used to indicate that the word is a compound term, combining "co" (meaning together or jointly) with "operative." This hyphen helps clarify pronunciation and emphasizes the collaborative nature of the concept, which refers to an organization or business owned and operated by its members for their mutual benefit. In some regions, it may also appear as "cooperative" without the hyphen, but both forms convey the same meaning.

No, hyphens are not used in word fractions like "one fifth" or "two fourths." These fractions are typically written as two separate words. However, when used as adjectives before a noun, they can be hyphenated, as in "one-fifth of the cake."

No, "end stage" is not hyphenated when used as a noun or adjective phrase. It typically appears as two separate words, such as in "end stage cancer." However, if used as a compound adjective before a noun, it can be hyphenated, as in "end-stage treatment." Always consider the context in which it is used.

No, "life size" is not hyphenated when used as a noun or an adverb. However, when it functions as an adjective before a noun, it is commonly hyphenated as "life-size." For example, you would say "a life-size statue" but "the statue is life size."

You should hyphenate "set up" when it is used as a compound adjective before a noun, as in "set-up process" or "set-up fee." However, when used as a verb phrase, such as "I will set up the meeting," it should not be hyphenated. Always consider the context to determine the correct form.

Yes, "cross-category" is typically hyphenated when used as an adjective to describe something that spans multiple categories, such as in "cross-category marketing." The hyphen helps clarify that the words work together to modify the noun that follows. However, when used as a noun or in other contexts, it may not require a hyphen, so it's best to consider the specific usage.

Yes, in many places, parents can legally kick their 17-year-old out, but it often depends on local laws regarding minors and parental rights. However, it's important to consider the emotional and practical implications of such a decision. Alternatives like family counseling or mediation might be more beneficial for both the parent and the teenager. Additionally, laws can vary, so it's advisable to consult legal guidance before taking action.

No, "vice principal" is not hyphenated. It is a commonly accepted term used to refer to a school administrator who assists the principal. Hyphenation is generally unnecessary in this case, as "vice" functions as a prefix rather than a compound adjective.

Yes, "nonemployee" should be written as one word without a hyphen. In general, prefixes like "non-" are typically combined with the following word to form a single term. However, it's always a good idea to consult specific style guides, as preferences may vary.

No, the word "mixed up" does not need a hyphen when used as a phrasal adjective or verb. It is typically written as two separate words. However, if you use it as a compound adjective before a noun, you might see it hyphenated as "mixed-up," such as in "a mixed-up situation."

Countries with a hyphen in their name include Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. These hyphens typically connect two distinct parts of the country's name, often reflecting historical or geographical significance. Other examples may include countries with multiple names or variations, but the most commonly recognized ones are listed above.

The term "check-up" is hyphenated when used as a noun, such as in "I have a check-up scheduled." However, when used as a verb, it is written as "check up," as in "I need to check up on my health."

No, "interpersonal" is not hyphenated. It is a single word used to describe interactions or relationships between people.

Yes, "best in class" is typically written without hyphens when used as a phrase. However, if you are using it as a compound adjective before a noun, you might see it hyphenated as "best-in-class." For example, you would say "This is a best-in-class product."

No, "bubble bath" does not have a hyphen. It is a compound noun made up of two separate words that describe a type of bath. Hyphens are typically used to connect words that function together as a single adjective before a noun, but in this case, "bubble bath" stands alone as a noun phrase.

Yes, "highly organized" is hyphenated when used as a compound adjective before a noun, as in "highly-organized event." However, when used after the noun, it is typically not hyphenated, as in "The event was highly organized."

The term "lookout" is typically written as one word when referring to a person or a place from which one observes. However, when used as a verb phrase, such as "look out," it is written as two separate words. So, whether it's hyphenated depends on the context in which it is used.