When is follow up hyphenated? This is a common question among writers and editors who are striving to maintain consistency in their written work. The use of hyphens can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to compound words. In this article, we will explore the rules for hyphenating the term “follow up” and provide guidance on when it should be hyphenated or left unhyphenated.
The term “follow up” is often used to describe the process of checking on something or someone after an initial action has been taken. It can refer to a variety of situations, such as following up on a job application, following up on a medical test result, or following up on a business lead. When it comes to hyphenating “follow up,” there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, it’s important to note that “follow up” is typically not hyphenated when it is used as a verb. For example, “I will follow up with the client tomorrow” does not require a hyphen. The compound word “follow up” is used as a verb to indicate the action of checking on something or someone.
However, when “follow up” is used as a noun, it can be hyphenated, especially when it is used to create a new compound noun. For instance, “The follow-up meeting was scheduled for next week.” In this case, “follow-up” is a compound noun that refers to the meeting itself.
Another instance where “follow up” is hyphenated is when it is used to create a compound adjective. For example, “The follow-up research was conducted to further understand the results.” Here, “follow-up” is used as an adjective to describe the nature of the research.
It’s worth noting that the hyphenation of “follow up” can vary depending on the style guide being followed. For instance, the Associated Press (AP) style guide recommends not using a hyphen when “follow up” is used as a verb or a compound noun. On the other hand, the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS) suggests using a hyphen when “follow up” is used as a compound adjective.
In conclusion, the hyphenation of “follow up” depends on its usage. When used as a verb or a compound noun, it is typically not hyphenated. However, when used as a compound adjective or to create a new compound noun, it is often hyphenated. To ensure consistency in your writing, it’s essential to consult the appropriate style guide and apply the recommended rules for hyphenation. Remember, the key to mastering the hyphenation of “follow up” lies in understanding its various uses and adhering to the guidelines provided by reputable style guides.
