Tag: hyphens

Looking up is always the right direction. Here are a few examples of how you can get going the right way when it comes to “up” words. You’ll find that hyphens are often used.

• mix up: two words as a verb. For example, “I’m going to mix up a batch of cookies.”
• mix-up: hyphenated as an adjective or noun. For example, “Please pardon the mix-up.”
• setup: one word as a noun or adjective. As in, “What kind of crazy setup did they have at the event?”
• set up: two words as a verb. For example, “I need you to set up that meeting, please.”
• start up: two words as a verb. “Start up the car; I’ll be out in a minute.”
• start-up: hyphenated as an adjective or noun. “The small start-up was known for being nimble and innovative.”

Quick one today: Words that have a “re” prefix require a hyphen if the compound word starts with “e.”

Think of it this way: “Re” with an “e” needs a hyphen.

A few examples:

• re-enlist
• re-enact
• re-elect
• re-energize