Ducks in order? Lineup vs. line-up vs. line up

Here is a lineup of words that you’ll want to get right: lineup, line-up and line up.

Lineup (no space) is a noun meaning a set of people, as in This year’s lineup at Operapalooza featured several great tenors.

Line up (a space between the words) is a verb meaning to place in a row, as in The Homecoming court will line up at 9 p.m. sharp.

Line-up isn’t a word, though some people erroneously use it as an adjective. Instead, use lineup (no space), as in The lineup order is from tallest to shortest.

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