The character most often used to represent a hyphen (and the one produced by the key on a keyboard) is called the "hyphen-minus" in the Unicode specification because it is also used as a minus sign. …

Jan 16, 2024 · But when you’re not sure whether a compound word should have a hyphen or not, check a dictionary or style guide. Hyphenated words tend to become closed compounds (single words with …

The meaning of HYPHEN is a punctuation mark - used especially to divide or to compound words, word elements, or numbers.

Dec 17, 2025 · The hyphen, whose use in combining compound words had become redundant with the introduction of word spacing, was then primarily a bandage for broken words. In the centuries that …

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, …

Video gamer is clear without a hyphen, although some writers might prefer to hyphenate it. Writers using familiar compound verbs and nouns should consult a dictionary or look online to decide if these verbs …

For most writers, the hyphen’s primary function is the formation of certain compound terms. The hyphen is also used for word division, which is briefly explained here.

Mar 15, 2025 · In this guide, we’ll explore how to use hyphens correctly, see examples of hyphen usage, and answer common questions about these helpful punctuation marks. What is a Hyphen?

Use a hyphen to avoid confusion or an awkward combination of letters: re-sign a petition (vs. resign from a job) semi-independent (but semiconscious) shell-like (but childlike) Use a hyphen with the prefixes …

The hyphen indicates the separation between the two lexical items that form the compound.