GCSE
English Language
In this lesson, we will explore the hyphen(-) Links words or parts of words, especially in compound modifiers before a noun (e.g., well-known author)., a small punctuation mark used to connect words or parts of words. Hyphens help join words to create compound words, link prefixes to root words, or divide words at the end of a line. Using hyphens correctly makes writing clearer and helps avoid confusion by showing how words work together. We will learn the common uses of hyphens and see examples to understand their role in writing.
Hyphen
This is what a hyphen looks like:
\(\text{-}\)
A hyphen is not the same as a dash. It is shorter and has a different function which is to link words or syllables (parts of words). It is commonly used in the following cases:
- To form compound adjectives (e.g. well-known author, five-minute break)
- To join prefixes to avoid confusion or awkward spelling (e.g. re-enter, ex-president)
- In certain compound nouns (e.g. mother-in-law, check-in)
- To show word breaks at the end of a line (though this is less common in digital writing)
Using hyphens correctly ensures your writing is not only grammatically accurate but also clear in meaning.
Example
It was a record-breaking performance.
The hyphen joins the words “record” and “breaking” to create a compound adjective describing “performance.”
Common Mistake
Some students forget to use hyphens in compound adjectives before a noun. For example:
He gave a well written speech.
This is incorrect. It should be:
He gave a well-written speech.
Without the hyphen, the phrase might be misread or lose clarity.
Continue the lesson
This section is available to learners with course access. Continue learning with Knowness to unlock the full explanation, examples, revision tools, and progress tracking.
The remaining lesson content includes further guided explanation, important learning points, and supporting interactive material designed to help you understand and revise this topic.
Unlock this topic to view the full activity, worked examples, common mistakes, and additional revision support.
More content available
Knowness lessons are structured to build understanding step by step. Create an account or upgrade your access to continue from this point.
This preview does not include the hidden lesson text, answers, explanations, or embedded interactions.
Continue learning with Knowness
Sign up to access the full lesson, predicted grades, revision tools, progress tracking, and more.
Create a free accountHyphen
- A hyphen is a short punctuation mark used to link words or parts of words — not the same as a dash.
- Common uses:
- Forming compound adjectives before a noun (well-known author, five-minute break).
- Joining prefixes to avoid awkward spelling or confusion (re-enter, ex-president).
- Creating certain compound nouns (mother-in-law, check-in).
- Indicating word breaks at the end of a line (rare in digital writing).
- Improves clarity and ensures correct meaning.