Ahh, the hyphen. The self-proclaimed grammar geeks here at Hammock have had many a debate about when to use it and when to avoid it. As with every rule regarding the English language, there are exceptions. But here are a few instances when using a hyphen is necessary and even makes sense:
1. A hyphen is used to make compound words:
- Obama-McCain debate
- Singer-songwriter
- Mother-in-law
2. A hyphen is used in fractions:
- Two-thirds
- Four-fifths
- Three thirty-seconds
3. A hyphen is used to make new words with prefixes like mid, self, ex, great, etc.
- Self-respect
- Ex-boyfriend
- Great-uncle
4. A hyphen is used with compound modifiers (two words that collective modify another).
- Greenish-blue eyes
- Gut-busting laughter
- Up-to-date calendar
5. A hyphen is used when writing out numbers twenty-one through ninety-nine.
As with all grammar and editorial rules and norms, some simply may not fit with your association’s publication, and a publication-specific style guide will need to be established. But these five rules will get you started in the right hyphen-using direction.