Compounds that can be nouns or verbs

Compounds that can be either nouns or verbs (eg build-up vs build up) are hyphenated differently depending on their role in the sentence.

Follow the noun or verb rule for these compounds:

  • Set solid when the phrase is a well-established noun; use a hyphen if it is less common.
  • Leave open when the phrase is a verb.

The runoff [noun] caused the flood.     The kitten might run off. [verb]

He did the workout. [noun]     I am sure things will work out [verb]

I got the go-ahead. [noun]     The project will go ahead [verb]

We went through a shake-up. [noun]     She wants to shake up [verb] our processes.

User login

... or purchase now

An individual subscription is only A$60 per year

Group and student discounts may apply

Australian manual of scientific style Start communicating effectively

Purchase