drop-out or drop out?

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drop-out

This is correct when used as a compound noun to refer to a person who has left school or college before finishing their studies.

The term "drop-out" is used to describe individuals who have discontinued their education before completion.

Examples:

  • The school has a high rate of drop-outs.
  • He is a college drop-out.

Alternatives:

  • school drop-out
  • college drop-out
  • university drop-out

drop out

This is correct when used as a phrasal verb to mean leaving something, especially school or college, without finishing it.

The term "drop out" is used to indicate the action of leaving school or college before completing the studies.

Examples:

  • She decided to drop out of college.
  • Many students drop out due to financial reasons.

Alternatives:

  • quit school
  • leave college
  • abandon studies
Both "drop-out" and "drop out" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Drop-out" is used as a compound noun to refer to a person who has left school or college before finishing their studies. On the other hand, "drop out" is a phrasal verb meaning to leave something, especially school or college, without finishing it.

Last updated: April 01, 2024

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