Short Answer 
The answer explains the concept of hyphenation, highlighting its importance in creating compound adjectives and clarifying meaning. It provides examples of correctly hyphenated sentences and encourages practice by creating compound adjectives and using numbers to enhance writing clarity.
Step 1: Understand Hyphenation
Hyphenation involves connecting words using a hyphen (-) to create compound adjectives or clarify meaning. It’s important to recognize when and how to properly hyphenate phrases in writing for clarity. Common instances of hyphenation include joining numbers and descriptors, such as:
- one-sixteenth
- forty-two
- twenty-one
- one-half
Step 2: Identify Correctly Hyphenated Sentences
Several sentences illustrate proper hyphenation. These examples show how hyphens are used to connect numbers and adjectives effectively. Pay attention to the following instances that demonstrate correct usage:
- The recipe only uses one-sixteenth of a cup of sugar per thirty-two cupcakes.
- We planted forty-two trees, but the twenty-two apple trees were my favorites.
- We had to memorize twenty-one verses, which was only one-half of the poem.
Step 3: Practice and Apply Hyphenation
To enhance your understanding of hyphenation, practice by writing your own sentences using the correct format. Experiment with numbers and adjectives that require hyphens. Not only will this reinforce your learning, but it will also help you identify when a hyphen is necessary in your writing!
- Create compound adjectives.
- Use numbers in your sentences.
- Review and edit your sentences for correct hyphenation.