1. Correct Spelling: Biweekly Vs.
Bi Weekly Or Bi-Weekly
Biweekly, without a hyphen, is the correct spelling of the term. It refers to something that occurs every two weeks or twice a week.
However, it is often confused with “bi weekly” or “bi-weekly.”
2. The Preferred Choice Among Native Writers: Biweekly
Among native writers, “biweekly” is the preferred choice.
It is commonly used and easily understood by readers. Using “bi weekly” or “bi-weekly” may cause confusion or distract readers from the intended meaning.
3. Dictionaries’ Stance: Cambridge And Oxford Support “Biweekly,” With Oxford Mentioning “Bi-Weekly” As An Alternative
Both The Cambridge Dictionary and The Oxford Dictionary state that “biweekly” is correct.
They consider it as one word without a hyphen. However, The Oxford Dictionary does mention “bi-weekly” as an alternative spelling, indicating some flexibility in usage.
4. Hyphen Usage: A Matter Of Writer Preference, But Not Commonly Used
The use of a hyphen in “bi-weekly” is a matter of writer preference.
However, it is worth noting that the hyphenated form is not commonly used in professional writing. Many style guides and native writers tend to avoid using the hyphen.
5. AP Stylebook Recommendation For Hyphenation When Modifying The Same Noun
According to the AP Stylebook, if “bi” and “weekly” are used together to modify the same noun, they should be hyphenated.
This means that “bi-weekly” would be the appropriate form in certain cases. However, it is important to note that this recommendation is specific to the AP Stylebook and may not be universally followed.
6. Examples Of Hyphenated Usage: Bi-Weekly Report, Bi-Weekly Evidence, Bi-Weekly Notice, Bi-Weekly Update
When following the AP Stylebook recommendation, the hyphenated usage of “bi-weekly” can be seen in phrases such as “bi-weekly report,” “bi-weekly evidence,” “bi-weekly notice,” and “bi-weekly update.” These examples demonstrate the hyphenation of “bi” and “weekly” when modifying the same noun.
7. Capitalization: Not Required, Except In Optional Titles
Capitalization of “bi” and “weekly” is not required, except in titles where it is optional.
When used in regular sentences, “biweekly” should be written in lowercase letters. However, if it is used as part of a title where title case is appropriate, the capitalization of “Bi” and “Weekly” is optional.
8. Consensus: “Biweekly” As The Correct Spelling, With Some Flexibility For Hyphenation
In conclusion, the correct spelling of the term is “biweekly” without a hyphen.
This is the preferred choice among native writers and is supported by The Cambridge Dictionary. The Oxford Dictionary considers “bi-weekly” as an alternative, indicating some flexibility in usage.
While the use of a hyphen is a matter of writer preference, it is not commonly used in professional writing. The AP Stylebook recommends hyphenation when “bi” and “weekly” modify the same noun, as seen in examples like “bi-weekly report.” Capitalization of “bi” and “weekly” is not required, except in optional titles.
Overall, the consensus is that “biweekly” is the correct spelling, but there is some room for flexibility in hyphenation in certain contexts.
