The Not-So-Great Hyphenated: Is LESS than ideal?
What is a Hyphenated?
A hyphenated word is a word that is formed by combining two or more words that are not typically combined. Hyphenated words are often used to indicate a range, a compound adjective, or a compound noun. For example, "self-made" or "unbreakable".
When is a Hyphenated Word LESS than Ideal?
While hyphenated words can be useful and convenient, there are some cases where they can be less than ideal. Here are some examples:
- Confusing Word Order: When a hyphenated word is used to indicate a range or a compound adjective, it can be confusing to read and understand. For example, "a-good–bad-**great" is not a clear or logical expression.
- Lack of Clarity: Hyphenated words can sometimes be unclear or ambiguous. For example, "self-made" is a compound adjective, but it’s not clear what it means to be "self-made".
- Overuse: Hyphenated words can be overused, leading to a lack of nuance and clarity in writing. For example, "self-selfish–selfless" is a common phrase, but it’s not particularly useful or memorable.
- Inconsistent Usage: Hyphenated words can be used inconsistently, leading to confusion and ambiguity. For example, "self-selfish–selfless" is used in some contexts, but not others.
The Benefits of Hyphenated Words
Despite their limitations, hyphenated words have several benefits:
- Convenience: Hyphenated words can be convenient to use, especially when writing about complex or nuanced topics.
- Clarity: Hyphenated words can provide clarity and precision when used correctly.
- Flexibility: Hyphenated words can be used in a variety of contexts, from formal writing to informal conversation.
When to Avoid Hyphenated Words
While hyphenated words can be useful, there are some cases where they should be avoided:
- Formal Writing: Hyphenated words are often used in formal writing, such as academic papers, business documents, and official correspondence. In these contexts, it’s best to stick with standard word order and avoid hyphenated words.
- Informal Conversation: Hyphenated words are often used in informal conversation, such as texting, social media, and online forums. In these contexts, it’s best to avoid hyphenated words and stick with standard word order.
- Technical Writing: Hyphenated words are often used in technical writing, such as user manuals, instructional guides, and technical specifications. In these contexts, it’s best to stick with standard word order and avoid hyphenated words.
Examples of Hyphenated Words that are LESS than Ideal
Here are some examples of hyphenated words that are LESS than ideal:
- self- vs. self-made: While "self-made" is a common phrase, "self-selfish–selfless" is not a clear or logical expression.
- un- vs. unbreakable: "Un-unbreakable" is not a clear or logical expression, and it’s not a common phrase.
- self- vs. selfish: "Self-selfish" is a common phrase, but it’s not particularly useful or memorable.
- self- vs. selfless: "Self-selfless" is a common phrase, but it’s not particularly useful or memorable.
Conclusion
While hyphenated words can be useful and convenient, there are some cases where they can be LESS than ideal. By understanding when to use hyphenated words and when to avoid them, writers and communicators can use these words effectively and efficiently. By sticking to standard word order and avoiding hyphenated words, writers and communicators can create clear, concise, and effective messages.
Table: Hyphenated Word Examples
| Hyphenated Word | Example | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| self-made | A person who has created something from scratch | self-made |
| unbreakable | Not capable of being broken | unbreakable |
| selfish | Having a selfish or self-centered attitude | selfish |
| selfless | Having a selfless or altruistic attitude | selfless |
| self- | A hyphenated word that indicates a range or compound adjective | self- |
| self- | A hyphenated word that indicates a compound adjective | self- |
| self- | A hyphenated word that indicates a compound adjective | self- |
Bulleted List: When to Avoid Hyphenated Words
- Formal writing
- Informal conversation
- Technical writing
- Writing for online platforms