OET Writing: Hyphenated Words

 OET Writing: Hyphenated Words


Precise and appropriate vocabulary usage is crucial in OET writing. Pay attention to hyphenated terms, especially when describing medical conditions, treatments, and patient care. 


1. Hyphenated Compounds:

A series of two or more words joined by hyphens is called a Hyphenated Compound.

In medical writing, you will come across various hyphenated terms. Here are some common examples:

* Post-operative: Referring to the period after surgery.

* Well-being: Describing a state of health and happiness.

* Patient-centered: Focusing on the patient's need.

* Health-related: Pertaining to matters related to health.

* Non-invasive: Not involving surgical procedures.

* Self-management: The ability of patients to manage their own health.

* Evidence-based: Grounded in scientific research and evidence.

* Pre-existing: Existing before a specific event or condition.

* Child-friendly: Suitable for children. 

* Time-consuming: Requiring a significant amount of time. 

* User-friendly: Easy to use for the intended audience.

* X-ray

* Follow-up


2. Plurals and Hyphenation:

* When a noun represents a quantity of more than one, we typically add an 's' at the end to indicate plurality.

For example, " three weeks", "four days", "five years".

* However, some words are used in their hyphenated form. Once hyphenated, we drop the 's', regardless of the quantity.

For example, a "three-week course", " a five -day program", " a two-year trip".


3. Open Compound Words:

They are words consist of two or more words written as separate entities with a space between them. The meaning of the compound is derived from the combination of these words. 

For example,

* Dining room: A room where meals are eaten.

* Living room: A common area in a house for relaxation.

* Coffee table: A low table placed in front of a sofa.

* Jogging pants: Comfortable pants suitable for jogging.

* High school: An educational institution for older students.

* Ice cream: A frozen dessert made from dairy products.


4. Closed Compound Words:

They are words formed by joining two or more words together without spaces or punctuation. Over the time, these words are accepted as a single word.

For example: 

* Notebook: A small book for writing or taking notes.

* Makeup: Cosmetics applied to enhance appearance. 


5. Hyphen Usage in Medical Terminology:

Hyphens play an essential role in medical writing, especially when forming compound words or clarifying relationships between terms. 

* Compound Adjectives: Use hyphens for compound adjectives that modify nouns. This ensures clarity.

For example,

Correct: A cost-effective treatment.

Wrong: The treatment was cost effective. 

* Common Compound Words:

Some compound words are widely used and they do not need hyphens. 

Examples:

"Healthcare", 

"Childcare",

"Crossover",

"Baseline",

"Breastfeeding",

"Birthweight".







_________________________________________

Should you have any queries, please contact
Dr Vijay C Nair

WhatsApp no: 7356 85 8467.

e- mail: vijaycnair2512@gmail.com



______________ The END _______________


 

  





























 



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