English UsageComparison guide
Lifelong vs. Life-Long
“Lifelong” is the standard closed form in current dictionary use, while “life-long” is also recorded as a variant in some references. The open form is not treated as the default adjective.
Use “lifelong” as the normal modern adjective; “life-long” may appear as a documented variant.
Key details
Confusion Familyspelling/variant choice
Rule Familyspelling-and-usage
TermsLifelong, Life-long
Further guidance
Core difference
The ordinary dictionary headword is the closed adjective “lifelong.”
Usage Boundary
If a publication’s house style retains “life-long,” follow that style consistently; otherwise prefer the closed form.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Lifelong — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary · Dictionary evidence for lifelong and documented life-long variant