The current trend is to do away with unnecessary hyphens with common prefixes. Examples: noncompliance copayment semiconscious unending However, there are exceptions. Exception: Hyphenate all words beginning with self except for selfish and selfless. Examples: self-assured self-respect self-addressed Exception: Use a hyphen with the prefix ex. Example: His ex-wife sued for nonsupport. Exception: Hyphenate prefixes [...]