One Word or Two?

There are many instances of one-word or two-words confusion in the English language. So please, if you must use a lot it is two words! As is thank you.

But this post deals with a specific category in the “one word or two” dilemma. These are the words that are generally two words when used as verbs and one word when used as nouns or adjectives. To further complicate matters, when used as adjectives, sometimes they are hyphenated.

I have seen so many people write, “I am going to the gym to workout.”  Or “You need to login to the computer.” Nope.

Here are some examples of words that are two when used as verbs and one when used as nouns or adjectives. This is not a comprehensive list.

Back up the computer. (verb) –  It’s time to do a backup of the computer. (noun)

Break down the steps for me. (verb) – My computer had an apparent breakdown. (noun)

I need to check up on her. (verb) – It is time for my yearly checkup. (noun)

Clean up this mess (verb). – I am on the cleanup committee. (adjective)

Count down from 100 to 1 (verb). – There is a countdown as the ball drops on New Years. (noun)

I need to follow up on that idea. (verb) – I have a follow-up appointment. (adjective)

I hang out with my friends. (verb) – I know a great hangout for pizza. (noun)

Please hook up my dress. (verb) –  I am not interested in a hookup with you. (noun)

Log in to the computer.(verb) – Do you know your login information? (adjective)

Look out for the train! (verb) – The lookout area is on top of the mountain. (adjective)

Take off that awful tie. (verb) – The plane is ready for takeoff. (noun)

Take out the trash. (verb) – I am ordering takeout for dinner. (noun)

I need to wake up early. (verb) – Did you get a wakeup call? (adjective)

Warm up before you exercise. (verb) – Did you finish your warmup? (noun)

I work out in the morning. (verb) – That was quite a workout! (noun)