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Hyphens in verb construction containing prefix such as “re”
Adding a prefix "re" to a word, with or without a hyphen?

I have a question about the use of the prefix 're', that means 'do it again' in my context. Let me explain: in mathematics we use the concept of 'parameterized' objects, that is, objects obtained while some parameter varies (think of the parameter as the time and the object as a point moving on a plane).

Well, if we describe the movement using the parameter we say that we are parameterizing or the object is parameterized. So, if we change the parameter by another one (for example, change the speed of the clock) we say that we are reparameterizing the object.

This is my question: Which is better: reparameterized or re-parameterized? I've just found this discussion but I remain uncertain.

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Sigur
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    Also this discussion: http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/84855/hyphens-in-verb-construction-containing-prefix-such-as-re The fact that you can't decide about a debate that's been replayed several times here isn't an excuse for rehearsing it yet again, I think. – itsbruce Oct 18 '12 at 03:17
  • @itsbruce You mean rehashing. – Kris Oct 18 '12 at 05:40
  • This may be merged with the post cited by @itsbruce -- the issue is not settled in any case. – Kris Oct 18 '12 at 05:41
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    There are two tests for deciding: english.stackexchange.com/questions/7731 –  Oct 18 '12 at 03:29
  • @Kris no, I really do mean rehearse. The older sense of the word is appropriate, here. – itsbruce Oct 18 '12 at 05:58
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    I would suggest that you read this answer http://english.stackexchange.com/a/895/4915 and navigate to the second URL http://www.grammarbook.com/punctuation/hyphens.asp see the 2nd rule 8, hyphens with prefixes, which specifically addresses your question about use of re with a hyphen. – Ellie Kesselman Oct 18 '12 at 07:05
  • @FeralOink Sounds good: "the re means again AND omitting the hyphen would cause confusion with another word." How should you know "would cause confusion" or not? cf. my answer below. – Kris Oct 19 '12 at 04:27
  • @StoneyB I'd say it should've been merged, not closed. – Kris Oct 19 '12 at 04:28
  • @waiwai and mods: I'd say it should've been merged, not closed. – Kris Oct 19 '12 at 04:29
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    @Kris Closure is the first step towards a merge. – waiwai933 Oct 19 '12 at 05:09

1 Answers1

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A pragmatic approach would be to check a standard dictionary.

My rationale is that:
It takes time for words to become mainstream.

Dictionaries rely on usage and popularity.

Certain words incidentally starting with the letters re already exist and have definite meanings. We need to be aware of them (e.g. resent, resign, report). Do not write resent when you mean sent again; write re-sent.

Certain words may be defined in standard dictionaries (AmE, BrE as may apply) with a hyphen, for good reason. Follow the convention.

In case of a neologism or where the word with the re prefix is not listed in dictionaries, use a hyphen in consideration for the reader.

Kris
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