why is it good to use a hyphen to create compound nouns or compound adjectives?

Question

1. using a hyphen helps to eliminate ambiguity
2. using a hyphen tells you where to add the word "and"
3. it helps to tell the reader when to pause
4. it looks cute between the word

Answer 1

Using a hyphen in compound nouns or compound adjectives primarily serves the following purposes:

1. Eliminating Ambiguity: Hyphens can clarify meaning by indicating how words are related to each other. For example, “small-business owner” clarifies that the owner runs a small business, whereas “small business owner” without the hyphen could be misread as an owner who is small in size.

2. Determining Relationship: In some cases, using a hyphen helps the reader understand the relationship between the words involved, although stating that it tells you where to add "and" might be a bit misleading. The hyphen shows that the words are working together as a single idea or descriptor.

3. Enhancing Readability: While it's not strictly about pausing, hyphens can help in understanding complex phrases by visually separating ideas, which can assist in the flow of reading.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: While "looking cute" may be a subjective viewpoint, some people appreciate the clarity and style that a hyphen can bring to their writing.

Overall, the primary and most important reason to use hyphens is to eliminate ambiguity and aid in clarity and understanding.