Hyphen with Suffixes: -like, -ish, -wise, -type, and Others
The Hyphen
Rulebase Summary
Use a hyphen for the suffix -like when attached to a proper adjective or a word ending in l (Wright-like, bell-like, June-like). For all other words, attach -like without a hyphen (childlike, businesslike).
The suffixes -ish, -wise, and -type are generally added without a hyphen (sevenish, largeish, stylish). Use hyphens with -wise to prevent misreading or when added to proper nouns (Sorrow-wise, November-wise, Christmas-wise). When -type is added to a word or phrase and the result functions as an adjective before a noun, hyphenate (computer-type, take-charge-type person). If no noun immediately follows -type, do not hyphenate.
The suffixes -long, -proof, -sick, and -wide are generally added without a hyphen (yearlong, childproof, heartsick, statewide). Words ending in -ache, -book, -fold, -house, -room, -shop, -skin, or -work are generally written as one word — consult a dictionary for exceptions.
Examples
A. The room had a belllike tone when you struck the wall.
A. The room had a bell-like tone when you struck the wall.
When the base word ends in l, hyphenate before -like to avoid three consecutive l's.
Q. Was this a computer type interface?
Q. Was this a computer-type interface?
When -type forms an adjective before a noun, use a hyphen.
Transcript Notes
Normal suffixes are added directly to form a solid word (citywide, daylong, fireproof).
The suffix -like forms a solid word unless the word ends in a double l (lifelike, childlike, but bell-like, shell-like). The suffix -wise forms a solid word for established words (lengthwise, edgewise) but is hyphenated for coined or unusual combinations (statistics-wise, environmental-wise) — these coined words are usually best hyphenated.
When a compound noun takes a suffix, add the suffix to the end of the last word (assembly line-like, Social security-wise).
Style Guide References (7)
Morson's
Morson's
Morson's
BGGP
BGGP
BGGP
BGGP