Although we should refrain from using hyphens when we can, I believe the two examples below have entirely different meanings, and the hyphens are essential to show that difference in meaning.
Do you agree that both examples below are correct?
three-hour-long meetings = meetings that last three hours each
three hour-long meetings = three separate meetings, each of which lasts an hour
Thanks.
Do you agree that both examples below are correct?
three-hour-long meetings = meetings that last three hours each
three hour-long meetings = three separate meetings, each of which lasts an hour
Thanks.
Yes, three hour-long meetings are three meetings, each an hour in length.
Yes, a three-hour-long meeting is one meeting that lasts three hours.
I don't agree we should refrain from using hyphens. We should use them whenever they are necessary or helpful.
Yes, a three-hour-long meeting is one meeting that lasts three hours.
I don't agree we should refrain from using hyphens. We should use them whenever they are necessary or helpful.
Hi,
I'd say native speakers often avoid such multi-hyphen phrases.
I'd prefer to say, as GG did, 'a meeting that lasts three hours'.
Or simply 'a three-hour meeting / three-hour meetings'. 'Long' is simply implied.
Clive
I'd say native speakers often avoid such multi-hyphen phrases.
I'd prefer to say, as GG did, 'a meeting that lasts three hours'.
Or simply 'a three-hour meeting / three-hour meetings'. 'Long' is simply implied.
Clive
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Hi, CLive
How would you say it if the meeting were 1 hour?
'three one-hour meetings'
Yes.
Clive
Yes, I agree.