Exploring the Nuances of “Real Life” and “Real-Life”

Language is full of rules that help us communicate clearly. Today, we’ll examine the terms “real life” and “real-life”, and also the phrase “one-third” and how to use them correctly. These terms have important differences in meaning and use depending on how they’re written and the role they play in a sentence.

Understanding “Real Life” and “Real-Life”

The distinction between “real life” and “real-life” lies in how each is used in writing. Here’s a breakdown:

• “Real life” (two words): Used as a noun, it refers to actual existence outside of fiction, fantasy, or imagination.
• “Real-life” (hyphenated): Used as an adjective, it describes something that is associated with the real world.

Below are examples showing correct and incorrect usage of these terms:

Correct and Incorrect Usage:

1. Noun (Correct):
   • “In real life, people face challenges every day.”
2. Noun (Incorrect):
   • “In real-life, people face challenges every day.”
     Explanation: As a noun, “real life” should not include a hyphen.
3. Adjective (Correct):
   • “The movie is based on a real-life story.”
4. Adjective (Incorrect):
   • “The movie is based on a real life story.”
     Explanation: When modifying a noun like “story,” the term needs a hyphen (real-life).
5. Verb Phrase (Incorrect Structure):
   • “She says she real-lifes every situation.”
   • Explanation: There is no correct way to use “real-life” as a verb since it is not a verb at all

Exploring “One Third” and “One-Third”

Next, let’s look at “one-third” and its variations.

• “One-third” (hyphenated): Acts as an adjective or a noun describing a part of a whole.
• “One third” (no hyphen): An incorrect spelling. This term should always be hyphenated when used.
• Verb usage: Neither “one third” nor “one-third” is used as a verb.

Correct and Incorrect Usage Examples:

1. Adjective (Correct):
   • “One-third of the cake was eaten.”
2. Adjective (Incorrect):
   • “One third of the cake was eaten.”
     Explanation: Adjectives that include fractions are always hyphenated.
3. Noun (Correct):
   • “I own one-third of the company.”
4. Noun (Incorrect):
   • “I own one third of the company.”
     Explanation: As a standalone noun, “one-third” needs a hyphen.

Importance of Grammar Rules

Using these terms correctly ensures that your writing is clear and professional. Grammar rules for hyphenation guide readers to the correct meaning quickly. Misuse, such as skipping or adding hyphens unnecessarily, may confuse readers or make sentences harder to read.

Consistency in UK and US English

One significant advantage here is the consistency between UK and US English for these terms. Both follow the same guidelines for hyphenation. So, whether you’re writing for a British or American audience, the rules for using “real life”, “real-life”, and “one-third” remain unchanged.

Key Takeaways

• Use “real life” as a noun and “real-life” as an adjective.
• Always hyphenate “one-third” when using it as a noun or adjective.
• Never use “one third” as it is an incorrect form.
• Consistency between UK and US English ensures global understanding.