“Entry Level” Or “Entry-Level”|Definition & Meaning

Understanding hyphenation rules for phrases like entry level or entry-level is important when mastering English. Once you understand how one rule works, it helps with many other hyphenation patterns. Let’s dive into whether entry level should be hyphenated or not.Hyphenation can be tricky in English, especially when dealing with phrases like entry level and entry-level. 

Knowing when to hyphenate makes your writing clearer and more professional. The basic rule is simple: use entry-level when it’s an adjective that modifies a noun, and use entry level when it functions as a noun. Understanding this distinction can improve your grammar and help you communicate more effectively. Let’s dive into some common questions to further clarify the difference between entry-level and entry level and ensure you apply the rules correctly.

Entry Level Or Entry-Level – Hyphenated Or Not?

The general rule for the entry-level hyphen is that we hyphenate it when it’s used as an adjective to modify a noun in a sentence. On the other hand, when entry level functions as a phrase noun and doesn’t modify anything else, we leave it unhyphenated.

Examples Of When To Use “Entry Level”

It’s one thing to explain how this works, but seeing it in action is more useful. We typically use entry level as two words when it is a phrase noun that doesn’t modify anything else in a sentence. However, as English evolves, many people use the hyphenated form, and over time, we may see entry level phase out in favor of entry-level.

• The exam questions were entry level.
• The job was looking at candidates at an entry level.
• They wanted someone who was entry level.
• The lowest level of qualification is entry level.
• You must be qualified as entry level, surely?
• The exam questions were entry level, designed for beginners.
• He is applying for jobs at an entry level, hoping to gain experience.
• They wanted someone who was entry level to fill the position.
• She completed the certification at an entry level, and now she’s ready for the next step.
• The company was hiring candidates with an entry level understanding of coding.
• The test was designed to assess entry level knowledge of the subject.
• He is starting at an entry level in the company but hopes to move up quickly.
• The course offered entry level training for new participants.
• At an entry level, you’re expected to learn the basics before advancing.
• This is an entry level course designed for those with no prior experience.
• Entry level roles typically require less experience and more training.
• She was hired for the entry level position and will undergo extensive training.
• The company only offers entry level positions for candidates without prior work experience.
• His understanding of the subject is at an entry level, but he’s eager to learn more.
• The internship program is aimed at entry level applicants seeking hands-on experience.

Examples Of When To Use “Entry-Level”

Now let’s look at how to use the hyphenated form entry-level. We use this version primarily as an adjective to modify a noun or object in a sentence. As mentioned, entry-level is becoming more commonly used across the board, no matter the context.

• I only have entry-level qualifications.
• That’s an entry-level position.
• We’re hiring for an entry-level job.
• We accept entry-level candidates.
• They’re entry-level students.
• She applied for an entry-level job at the company.
• The company is offering several entry-level positions for new graduates.
• He has entry-level experience in marketing but is eager to learn more.
• The entry-level course is perfect for those with no prior knowledge of programming.
• They are looking for entry-level candidates to join their sales team.
• This entry-level role includes extensive on-the-job training.
• An entry-level employee is expected to learn basic skills before advancing.
• He started in an entry-level position but quickly moved up the ranks.
• We’re hiring for an entry-level position with opportunities for growth.
• The entry-level test is designed to assess the fundamental skills required for the job.
• Entry-level qualifications are required to apply for this internship.
• She gained entry-level knowledge in data analysis through online courses.
• They are looking for entry-level developers to join their tech team.
• The entry-level manual provides all the basics needed to get started in the industry.
• This entry-level program offers hands-on experience for beginners in the field.

Is Entry Level Hyphenated In AP Style?

The AP Stylebook guides us on whether entry-level or entry level is correct. The rule is simple: hyphenate two or more words when they are closely linked and used as an adjective to provide additional meaning. These words function together to modify a noun.

Should I Capitalize “Level” In “Entry-Level”?

Capitalization rules for entry-level depend on the style guide you’re following. When used in titles, things can get a little tricky.

• First style: Capitalize only the first word and any proper nouns in a title. Here, you would not capitalize entry-level unless it begins the title.
• Second style: Capitalize all words except for short prepositions, conjunctions, and articles. You would capitalize entry, but not level.
• Third style: Capitalize all words in the title. In this case, you would capitalize both entry and level, treating them as two separate words despite the hyphen.

Alternatives To “Entry Level”

If you’re still unsure about using the entry level hyphen, you can opt for alternatives that express a similar meaning. This way, you avoid confusion or potential errors.

• Beginner
• Amateur
• Fresh
• New
• Unseasoned

Quiz – Entry Level Or Entry-Level?

This quiz is designed to test your knowledge of when to hyphenate entry level. Pay close attention to the rules we’ve discussed!

• I’m an (A. entry level / B. entry-level) candidate.
• (A. entry level / B. entry-level) qualifications are expected for this role.
• We are only working at (A. entry level / B. entry-level).
• This school works with (A. entry level / B. entry-level) students.
• I can’t get past the (A. entry level / B. entry-level).

Quiz Answers:

• B
• B
• A
• B
• A

FAQs

When should I use “entry level” without a hyphen?

Use entry level without a hyphen when it functions as a noun phrase rather than an adjective. For example, in the sentence “The exam was entry level,” the phrase is describing the level or stage of the exam, not modifying another word. In this case, entry level stands on its own and doesn’t need a hyphen. Remember that when entry level describes a general status or stage without directly modifying a noun, it remains unhyphenated. This is a common error in writing but easy to avoid once you understand the rule.

When is “entry-level” hyphenated?

You should hyphenate entry-level when it acts as an adjective modifying a noun in the sentence. For example, in “I am applying for an entry-level job,” the term entry-level describes the type of job being referred to. The hyphen joins the two words to create a single adjective, clarifying that the job is designed for beginners. In this case, without the hyphen, the meaning could become unclear or ambiguous. Hyphenating helps maintain clarity, especially in professional and formal writing.

How does AP style guide the use of “entry-level”?

The AP Stylebook suggests hyphenating phrases like entry-level when they function as adjectives modifying a noun. According to AP style, two or more words that work together to describe something should be hyphenated to avoid confusion. This rule applies to entry-level, ensuring the meaning is clear to the reader. However, if entry level is being used as a noun, AP style doesn’t require a hyphen. Knowing how AP style applies helps you maintain consistency in formal and journalistic writing.

Should I capitalize both “Entry” and “Level” in a title?

In most title styles, you only capitalize Entry, but not Level, even if it is part of a hyphenated phrase like entry-level. For example, in sentence case titles, you would write “I am looking for an entry-level position” with only the first word, entry, capitalized. However, in title case, depending on the style guide, you may capitalize both Entry and Level, especially in styles where every word in the title is capitalized. It’s important to follow the style guide you’re using to ensure proper formatting.

What are common mistakes with “entry-level” hyphenation?

One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to hyphenate when entry-level acts as an adjective. For instance, people often write “I’m applying for an entry level job” when the correct form is “I’m applying for an entry-level job” because it modifies the noun “job.” Another mistake is over-hyphenating, where entry-level is hyphenated even when it’s used as a noun phrase (e.g., “The exam is entry level,” not “entry-level”). Understanding the distinction between the adjective and noun forms prevents these errors.

Are there alternatives to the term “entry-level”?

Yes, there are several alternatives to entry-level depending on the context. Words like beginner, novice, new, junior, or amateur can often replace entry-level in professional or casual writing. For instance, instead of saying “This is an entry-level position,” you could say “This is a beginner role” or “We are hiring for a junior position.” These alternatives offer variety and can help you avoid overusing entry-level in your writing.

Conclusion

Mastering hyphenation, especially with terms like entry-level and entry level, is crucial for effective communication. Once you understand when to hyphenate and when not to, your writing becomes more precise and easier to follow. The rules may seem small, but they have a big impact on how your message is perceived. By applying these guidelines, you’ll avoid common mistakes and enhance your writing clarity. As the saying goes, “Good writing is clear thinking made visible.” Always aim for clarity, and the rules will follow naturally.