High School: One Word or Two?
When it comes to the phrase “high school,” there is an ongoing debate about whether it should be written as one word or two. While it may seem like a minor issue, it’s one that has caused countless arguments among grammar enthusiasts and even some confusion among the general public.
So, which is the correct way to write it? Let’s take a closer look.
One Word: Highschool
One argument in favor of writing “highschool” as one word is that it is becoming increasingly popular and is seen as a more streamlined and efficient way of spelling the word. For instance, a quick Google search for “highschool” yields over 500 million results – many of which use it as one word.
Additionally, many popular style guides such as the Associated Press Stylebook and The Chicago Manual of Style recognize “highschool” as a valid alternative to “high school.” This means that it is acceptable to use it in journalistic or academic writing.
One benefit of using “highschool” as one word is that it can save space in printed materials, such as headlines or social media posts. However, it’s worth noting that this shorthand may not be appropriate in more formal or academic settings.
Two Words: High School
The majority of traditional sources, such as Merriam-Webster and Oxford English Dictionary, recognize “high school” as the proper spelling of the phrase. This is based on the fact that “high” and “school” are separate words with distinct definitions.
Writing “high school” as two words is also consistent with the way other school-related terms are spelled, such as “elementary school” and “middle school.”
Using “high school” as two words is also more common in academic writing, such as research papers or essays. This is because it is seen as more formal and professional than using “highschool” as one word.
Which is Correct?
In the end, both “highschool” and “high school” are correct spellings of the phrase, and the choice comes down to personal preference or context.
If you’re writing informally, such as on social media or memo, you could use “highschool” to save space and add some stylistic flair. However, if you’re writing professionally, such as on a resume or academic paper, stick with “high school” to maintain a more formal tone.
It’s also worth considering the context and audience when making the decision. If you’re writing for a younger audience, “highschool” may be more relatable and appropriate. However, if you’re writing for a more established audience, “high school” may be the better choice.
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