Common mistake missing hyphen in 'strong arm'

Common Mistakes in English Grammar

Missing Hyphen

One common mistake in English grammar is the omission of hyphens in compound words or phrases. Hyphens are used to connect words to create a single concept or modify a noun. For example:

  • Incorrect: strong arm
  • Correct: strong-arm

In this case, "strong-arm" is a compound adjective that describes a person or action involving physical force. Without the hyphen, "strong" and "arm" are treated as separate words, and the intended meaning of the phrase may not be understood correctly.

It's important to remember that hyphens should be used in compound words or phrases that function as adjectives before a noun. Here are a few more examples:

  • Incorrect: high school teacher
  • Correct: high-school teacher
  • Incorrect: full time job
  • Correct: full-time job
  • Incorrect: red colored shirt
  • Correct: red-colored shirt

Using hyphens correctly not only helps to convey the intended meaning but also enhances the readability and clarity of your writing. To ensure accurate hyphen usage and avoid this common mistake, you can rely on tools like the Linguix grammar checker, which provides real-time feedback and suggestions for improving your writing.

missing hyphen in 'strong arm' mistake examples

  • Incorrect:
    I will strong arm myself to protect me and my family.

    Correct:
    I will strong-arm myself to protect me and my family.

  • Incorrect:
    I strong armed myself to protect my family.

    Correct:
    I strong-armed myself to protect my family.

  • Incorrect:
    I didn't strong arm myself.

    Correct:
    I didn't strong-arm myself.

  • Incorrect:
    Let's strong arm ourselves to protect our families.

    Correct:
    Let's strong-arm ourselves to protect our families.

  • Incorrect:
    I did not strong arm myself.

    Correct:
    I did not strong-arm myself.

  • Incorrect:
    I'm strong arming myself.

    Correct:
    I'm strong-arming myself.

  • Incorrect:
    He strong armed himself.

    Correct:
    He strong-armed himself.

  • Incorrect:
    I want to strong arm myself.

    Correct:
    I want to strong-arm myself.

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