Well Being vs. Well-Being – Which is Correct?
The concept of one’s overall health and happiness is often discussed in terms of well being or well-being.
Choosing the right form can impact the clarity of your message.
Quick Summary
“Well-being” is the correct form when referring to a person’s overall health and happiness. It is typically hyphenated to form a compound noun. “Well being” without the hyphen is generally considered a less common variant and may be seen as a mistake in formal writing.
Well Being vs. Well-Being – Which is Correct?
The term “well-being” with a hyphen is the widely accepted form in English:
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Well-being | As a noun referring to the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy | Regular exercise contributes to overall well-being. |
| Well being | Less common and may be considered incorrect in formal contexts | – |
How to Use “Well-Being”
“Well-being” refers to the state of being healthy, content, and satisfied in life. It encompasses physical, mental, and emotional health. Here’s how to use it:
- Health context:
“A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining physical well-being.” - Psychological aspect:
“Meditation can have a positive impact on one’s emotional well-being.”
Practice Exercises
Choose the correct form to complete the sentences:
- The charity focuses on improving the _ (well being/well-being) of children in need.
- Financial stability plays a significant role in a person’s _ (well being/well-being).
- The company offers wellness programs to enhance employee _ (well being/well-being).
- The council is conducting a survey on the _ (well being/well-being) of the local community.
- Access to clean water is a fundamental aspect of human _ (well being/well-being).
Answer Key:
- well-being
- well-being
- well-being
- well-being
- well-being
Conclusion
To communicate effectively about health and happiness, “well-being” with a hyphen is the standard and correct form.
It is a compound noun that captures the essence of what it means to live a balanced and fulfilling life.
Remembering to include the hyphen will ensure your writing is precise and professional.
