Hyphen Symbol – Meaning, Definition, Usage and Examples

Hyphen Symbol: The hyphen, denoted by “-“, is a versatile punctuation mark used in writing to link words or parts of words. Its main role is in forming compound words like “well-known” or “high-quality” by combining two or more words. Additionally, it’s used for various purposes such as indicating word breaks, forming compound adjectives, and connecting prefixes and suffixes. Despite its small size, the hyphen is crucial for clarity and precision in written English. In this article, we’ll explore the symbol of hyphen, role of hyphens in compound words, their definition, meaning, and usage, along with examples.

Hyphen Symbol Definition and Examples

A hyphen is a punctuation mark (-) used primarily to join words together, particularly in compound words or to separate syllables in words at the end of a line. It serves to link words, prefixes, or suffixes to form compound words or to clarify word combinations.

For example, in the word “mother-in-law,” the hyphen connects the words to create a compound noun. Similarly, in “self-esteem,” the hyphen joins the prefix “self” with the root word “esteem.” Furthermore, hyphens are used to indicate word breaks in line wrapping and to form compound adjectives before nouns, such as “well-known author.” Hyphen plays a crucial role in enhancing readability, conveying precise meaning, and facilitating clear communication in written English.

Must Read: How to Learn English Quickly

Using Hyphens in Your Writing – Guidelines and Key Considerations

Hyphens serve as connectors between two words to create compound words, but they possess additional functions as well. Let’s explore these points:

• Hyphens can denote physical quantities when the unit is written out, rather than when it’s abbreviated.
• They are used with numbers to indicate time frames, distance estimates, and other attributes.
• Hyphens are employed when expressing the age of people or objects.
• In writing, they are included in compound numbers and fractions only when spelled out.
• Additionally, hyphens are added when attaching prefixes and suffixes, although this isn’t always necessary.
• Incorporating these guidelines will help ensure clarity and consistency in your writing.

When to Use a Hyphen in a Sentence

Compound Words: Use hyphens to join two or more words that function together as a single concept, such as “mother-in-law” or “editor-in-chief.”

Prefixes and Suffixes: Hyphens are used with certain prefixes (like “ex-“, “self-“, “all-“) and suffixes to clarify meaning, for example, “ex-marine” or “self-aware.”

Numbers and Fractions: Apply hyphens in compound numbers (twenty-one) and spelled-out fractions (three-fourths).

Ages and Time Spans: Use hyphens when indicating the age of a person or object (“a five-year-old child”) and for time spans (“a 10-year period”).

Avoiding Ambiguity: Use hyphens to prevent confusion in word combinations, such as “re-cover” (to cover again) versus “recover” (to get better).

Compound Adjectives Before Nouns: Hyphenate compound adjectives when they come before a noun, like “well-known artist” or “high-risk investment.”

Word Breaks: Hyphens can be used at the end of a line to divide a word between syllables if it doesn’t fit.

Read Related Punctuation Marks

Comma Punctuation Mark

Full Stop Punctuation Mark

Semicolon Punctuation Mark

Hyphen Symbol Sentence Examples

Category	Examples
Hyphens for Physical Quantities	I had to carry a fifty-pound suitcase up to the fourth floor yesterday. Ravi found a ten-centimeter-long lizard on a tree in his yard. Due to a wrist injury, Raj struggled to lift a three-kilogram bag of flour last week.
Hyphens in Compound Words	Lila was a free-spirited child who loved every moment of her life. Sarah had a clear-eyed perspective on the issue. I didn’t realize that the blue-striped shirt I bought was torn.
Hyphens for Time Frames, Distances, and Attributes	They told us the workshop would run from 2:00-4:00 p.m. We anticipated 300-500 attendees at the conference, but nearly 1000 showed up. Jessica said we needed to drive 2-3 miles after the roundabout to reach the park.
Hyphens for Age	We were amazed to see the eighty-year-old man running a marathon. Our six-year-old son won the art contest. The fifteen-year celebration of our business is next month.
Hyphens in Fractions and Compound Numbers	Alex ate half of the pie on his own. More than one-fourth of the city’s population voted. Thirty-five participants advanced to the final round.
Hyphens with Prefixes and Suffixes	The ex-athlete now coaches local teams. He had a self-imposed deadline for the project. My great-aunt is visiting next week.

How to Use Hyphens

• Linking Words: Connect words that belong together to form a single idea, such as “part-time” or “user-friendly.”
• Clarity with Prefixes: Add hyphens with prefixes to avoid misreading, for instance, “co-op” (cooperative) instead of “coop” (a cage for chickens).
• Combining Numbers: Use hyphens to combine numbers into compound terms, like “thirty-two” or “ninety-nine.”
• Descriptive Phrases: When a compound adjective comes before a noun, use a hyphen to link the words together for clear meaning, such as “long-term plan.”
• Avoiding Misinterpretation: Ensure clarity by using hyphens where needed to maintain the intended meaning of your sentence, like “re-creation” (creating again) versus “recreation” (fun activity).
• Breaking Words: When breaking words at the end of a line, place the hyphen at the syllable break, ensuring readability and flow.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively use hyphens to improve clarity and precision in your writing.