Flashcard 14 - Writing and Language Flashcard Set for the PSAT/NMSQT Exam

A hyphen (-) links words or phrases together in a sentence.

There are many possible uses for hyphens and complete lists can be found online. Common ways to use a hyphen include:

To link compound adjectives: “The man’s well-behaved children sat politely on the sofa.”

For ages and time periods: “My 12-year-old dog finally passed away peacefully.”

To eliminate confusion: “The big dog park was open every weekend.” As written, we cannot tell if the writer is saying it is a big park for dogs or a park for big dogs only. Look at the sentence with a hyphen: “The big dog-park was open every weekend.” or “The big-dog park was open every weekend.”

Do not confuse hyphens and dashes.
Never add spaces around a hyphen.