English grammar can be tricky, especially when it comes to small things like hyphens. One of the most common questions is: should we write "full time" or "full-time"? If you've ever been confused about when to use the hyphen, you're not alone. I’ve worked as a grammar coach for years, and this question comes up all the time, even from professionals. Let's break it down in a super simple way so that anyone—even a 12-year-old—can understand it.
What Does "Full-Time" Mean?
“Full-time” usually means something that takes up the whole working day or week. It’s often used to talk about jobs, school, or responsibilities. For example, if you work full-time, it usually means you work around 40 hours a week. But the number can be different depending on your country or job. In the United States, 40 hours is the usual amount.
When to Use "Full-Time" (With a Hyphen)
You use “full-time” with a hyphen when it comes before a noun. In grammar, that’s called an adjective. Example: “She has a full-time position.” Here, “full-time” is describing the word “position.” So it needs the hyphen to link the words together.
Quick Tip:
If "full-time" is directly describing something (like a job, student, or role), use the hyphen!
When to Use "Full Time" (No Hyphen)
Use “full time” without a hyphen when it’s not describing a noun, but instead being used like a regular noun or adverb. For example: “She works full time.” There’s no noun right after “full time,” so you don’t need the hyphen.
Why People Get Confused
It’s confusing because both versions sound the same when you say them. But writing follows rules that help readers understand better. Even native speakers mix these up. I once saw a job ad that said “We are hiring full time employees,” which is incorrect. It should’ve been “full-time employees.”
Full Time vs Full-Time in Real Sentences
Let’s see some examples:
- Correct: “He got a full-time position at the company.”
- Correct: “He works full time at the company.”
- Incorrect: “He got a full time position.”
- Incorrect: “He works full-time at the company.” (This can be okay in casual speech, but usually needs a noun after it.)
"It’s always about where the word is placed in the sentence." – Grammar Coach Tip
What Style Guides Say
Style guides like the Chicago Manual of Style and AP Stylebook agree: hyphenate “full-time” when it's an adjective before a noun. Skip the hyphen when it's used as a noun or adverb. This rule helps make your writing clearer.
In Job Applications
When writing resumes or filling out job applications, make sure you’re using the right form. If you say you’re looking for a “full time role,” many hiring managers might catch the error. Saying “full-time role” is not only grammatically correct, but shows attention to detail.
How to Remember the Difference
One memory trick I teach students is this: if there’s a noun right after, slap in the hyphen. If it’s just sitting at the end of the sentence, leave the hyphen out. This little tip has helped even grownups who struggle with grammar.
Key Benefits of Time Management:
- Better writing confidence
- Fewer grammar mistakes
- Professional-looking resumes
- Clearer communication
Fulltime or Full-Time?
“Fulltime” as one word is incorrect in formal writing. While some people type it that way online, it's not accepted in proper English. Always split it into two words (“full time”) or hyphenate (“full-time”) depending on how you use it in the sentence.
Common Mistakes in the United States
In the United States, people often write “fulltime job” or “works fulltime.” Both are incorrect. I’ve edited thousands of papers and job listings, and this mistake pops up a lot. Stick to “full-time job” and “works full time” to be safe.
Quick Review Table
| Form | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| full-time | Before a noun | Full-time worker |
| full time | At the end of sentence | He works full time |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is full time hyphenated?
Yes, use a hyphen when it comes before a noun, like “full-time job.”
Q: Can I write fulltime as one word?
No, “fulltime” is not correct in formal writing. Use “full-time” or “full time.”
Q: What’s the rule for hyphenation?
Use the hyphen when “full-time” is an adjective right before a noun.
Q: Is it different in the United States?
No, the rule is the same in the U.S.—hyphen for adjectives, no hyphen for nouns/adverbs.
Q: Does this rule apply to other words?
Yes! Like “part-time” or “well-known”—the same rule applies.
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