The term “high school” is commonly used in education, but many people wonder whether it should be written as one word or two. The simple answer is that “high school” is always two words when referring to an educational institution. However, its usage can change depending on how it functions in a sentence.
Is “High School” One Word or Two?
The correct spelling is “high school” (two words) when referring to an institution for secondary education. It should never be written as “highschool” in standard English.
Examples of “High School” in Sentences
- Correct: I attended high school in New York.
- Incorrect: I attended highschool in New York.
In all cases, “high school” remains two words.
When to Use “High-School” With a Hyphen
The phrase “high school” is sometimes hyphenated when used as an adjective before a noun.
- Correct: She is a high-school teacher.
- Incorrect: She is a high school teacher.
However, many style guides, including AP Style, recommend keeping “high school” as two words even in adjective form:
- Preferred: She is a high school teacher (no hyphen).
FAQs
Is “high school” capitalized?
“High school” is only capitalized when it is part of a proper noun, such as “Lincoln High School.”
Should I write “highschool” as one word?
No, “highschool” is incorrect. Always write it as two words: “high school.”
Can I hyphenate “high school”?
Only when used as an adjective (high-school student), but most style guides prefer leaving it unhyphenated.
The correct way to write “high school” is always two words. While it may be hyphenated in some adjective forms, the preferred style is to keep it separate. Understanding these grammar rules will help you use “high school” correctly in both writing and speech.