WEB: What is the Difference Between Kickoff, Kick-Off, and Kick Off?

Introduction

In the world of sports, particularly in football, the term "kickoff" is commonly used to describe the start of a game. However, variations in the spelling and formatting of this word have led to confusion. In this post, we will delve into the differences between the three common spellings of "kickoff": kickoff, kick-off, and kick off.

Kickoff vs. Kick-Off

The traditional and most widely accepted spelling of the word is "kickoff," written as one word with no hyphen. This spelling is consistent with the Merriam-Webster dictionary and is used by major sports organizations such as the NFL and NCAA. In contrast, the spelling "kick-off" incorporates a hyphen between the two words "kick" and "off." This hyphenation is sometimes used in British English and informal writing, but it is not as common as the one-word spelling.

Kick Off vs. Kickoff or Kick-Off

The spelling "kick off" is grammatically incorrect and should not be used in formal writing. It lacks cohesion and does not follow the established conventions of the English language. When referring to the start of a football game, always use either "kickoff" or "kick-off," depending on your preferred style.