Is following up hyphenated a necessary practice in English writing? This question often arises among writers and editors who strive for accuracy and clarity in their work. In this article, we will explore the importance of using a hyphen in the phrase “following up” and discuss the circumstances under which it is appropriate to hyphenate this compound verb.
Hyphenation is a tool used in English writing to clarify meaning, avoid ambiguity, and maintain consistency. When it comes to the phrase “following up,” the hyphen plays a crucial role in determining its grammatical function and meaning. The hyphenated form, “following up,” is typically used as a compound verb, while the non-hyphenated form, “following up,” can serve as a gerund or an infinitive verb.
In the compound verb form, “following up” is used to describe the action of taking action after an initial event or situation. For example, “The company is following up on the customer’s complaint to ensure satisfaction.” In this sentence, “following up” is an action that the company is taking in response to the customer’s complaint. The hyphenation emphasizes the unity of the two words and indicates that they work together as a single unit.
On the other hand, when “following up” is used as a gerund or an infinitive verb, it does not require a hyphen. As a gerund, “following up” can be used as a noun to describe the act of following up on something. For instance, “The project required a lot of following up.” Here, “following up” is a noun phrase that functions as the subject of the sentence. As an infinitive verb, “following up” can be used to express the purpose or intention behind an action. For example, “He went to the store to follow up on the order.” In this case, “following up” is an infinitive verb phrase that serves as the object of the preposition “to.”
So, when should you hyphenate “following up”? The general rule is to hyphenate “following up” when it is used as a compound verb, emphasizing the action of taking subsequent steps after an initial event. However, when “following up” is used as a gerund or an infinitive verb, it should not be hyphenated.
In conclusion, the decision to hyphenate “following up” depends on its grammatical function in a sentence. By understanding the context and purpose of the phrase, writers and editors can ensure that their work is both accurate and clear. While hyphenation can sometimes be a source of confusion, it is an essential tool for maintaining the integrity of the English language.
