Filled Out vs. Filled-Out

Attribute	Filled Out	Filled-Out
Spelling	Correct	Correct
Hyphenation	Not hyphenated	Not hyphenated
Capitalization	First letter capitalized	First letter capitalized
Usage	Commonly used	Less commonly used

Definition

When it comes to the terms "filled out" and "filled-out," it's important to understand the subtle differences in their usage. "Filled out" is a phrasal verb that means to complete a form or document by providing the necessary information. On the other hand, "filled-out" is an adjective that describes something that is full or rounded in shape. While both terms involve the idea of being full or complete, they are used in different contexts.

Usage

One key distinction between "filled out" and "filled-out" is their grammatical function. "Filled out" is typically used as a verb phrase, as in "I need to fill out this application form." In this sentence, "filled out" is the action that needs to be performed. On the other hand, "filled-out" is used as an adjective to describe a noun, such as "She has a filled-out figure." In this case, "filled-out" is modifying the noun "figure" to indicate that it is full or rounded.

Examples

To further illustrate the difference between "filled out" and "filled-out," consider the following examples:

• "I filled out the survey with my personal information." (verb phrase)
• "The vase was filled-out with fresh flowers." (adjective)

Context

Understanding the context in which "filled out" and "filled-out" are used is crucial for using them correctly in writing and conversation. When discussing paperwork or forms, it is appropriate to use "filled out" as a phrasal verb to indicate completion. For example, "Please make sure to fill out all sections of the application." On the other hand, when describing physical attributes or objects that are full or rounded, "filled-out" is the appropriate term. For instance, "The dress was designed to flatter her filled-out figure."

Connotation

Another aspect to consider when comparing "filled out" and "filled-out" is their connotations. "Filled out" tends to have a neutral or practical connotation, as it is often used in the context of completing forms or paperwork. It simply implies the act of providing necessary information. In contrast, "filled-out" can have a more subjective or aesthetic connotation, as it is often used to describe physical attributes or objects that are full or rounded in shape. This adjective can evoke a sense of fullness or completeness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "filled out" and "filled-out" may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct meanings and usage in the English language. "Filled out" is a verb phrase used to indicate completion of forms or documents, while "filled-out" is an adjective used to describe objects or physical attributes that are full or rounded. By understanding the nuances of these terms and their contexts, you can use them effectively in your writing and communication.