In the last post we expanded our foray into precision of language to include the proper use of hyphens with the prefix neo-. In this post we continue that expansion by exploring the proper use of the hyphen with the suffix -like.
In most cases, the suffix -like will not need a hyphen. However, because more effective writing always favors clarity, -like will take a hyphen if the resulting compound word seems unusual or unclear.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. The writer here has used the suffix -like twice. The first instance (lifelike) does not require a hyphen; lifelike is common enough not to be unusual or unclear. However, the second instance involving the word human does require a hyphen since the resulting compound word isn’t very common and as such conveys a sense of unfamiliarity that suggests a possible lack of clarity.
In most cases, the suffix -like will not need a hyphen. However, because more effective writing always favors clarity, -like will take a hyphen if the resulting compound word seems unusual or unclear.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. The writer here has used the suffix -like twice. The first instance (lifelike) does not require a hyphen; lifelike is common enough not to be unusual or unclear. However, the second instance involving the word human does require a hyphen since the resulting compound word isn’t very common and as such conveys a sense of unfamiliarity that suggests a possible lack of clarity.
The lifelike replicated assistants approached customers with human-like attributes of friendliness and joviality.
Uncommon words ending in -like like hyphens. Increasing your precision of language will increase the effectiveness of your presentations. And that will increase the image of professionalism you and your brands portray to your audience.
RSS Feed