E-mail or Email | Definition & Correct Spelling

E-mail and email both mean “electronic mail.” Both are acceptable, but “email” has become the more popular variant. However, some style guides and publications still prefer “e-mail.” When deciding which one to use, follow any applicable guidelines and remain consistent throughout your writing.

Examples: E-mail or email in a sentence
Please send me an e-mail/email if you have any questions.

They said they would contact me via e-mail/email.

I will e-mail/email you once I get the results.

When to use e-mail or email

“E-mail” and “email” are different variants of the same compound word that stands for “electronic mail.” As with most compound words, “e-mail” (with the hyphen) was more common at its inception, which was around the time the internet was first created. As time went on, “email” (without the hyphen) started becoming more acceptable, and today it is the more prevalent variant.

Always refer to any relevant style guide, as some publications still prefer the use of “e-mail” over “email.” If there are no requirements, both spellings are acceptable, but choose one and maintain consistency throughout your writing.

E-mail or email as a noun

As nouns, “e-mail” and “email” stand for “electronic mail” and refer to messages sent via the internet through computers connected to a network.

Example: E-mail and email as a noun
I start my day by clearing all my e-mails/emails.

She says she will get back to me via e-mail/email.

Leon is waiting on an e-mail/email from the administrators.

I have to check my e-mails/emails, and then I can give you a call.

E-mail or email as a verb

As verbs, “e-mail” and “email” refer to the act of sending someone an email. The different forms of this verb are:

Examples: E-mail or email as a verb
I will e-mail/email you as soon as I get home.

Josh will e-mail/email the meeting notes.

I’m e-mailing/emailing everyone about the possible venue locations.

Please e-mail/email me at your earliest convenience.

E mail or e-mail

Both “e-mail” and “email” are acceptable and widely used spellings, but “e mail” is not and should not be used in writing. A QuillBot grammar check can help you avoid errors like “e mail.”

Examples: E mail or e-mail
  • Can you send me an e-mail with all the requested information?
  • Can you send me an email with all the requested information?
  • Can you send me an e mail with all the requested information?

Frequently asked questions about e-mail or email

Is email hyphenated?

The word “email” doesn’t have to be hyphenated. Both “email” and “e-mail” are widely used and accepted, although “email” has become more common.

The QuillBot Grammar Checker can help ensure your writing is free of punctuation and spelling errors.

Is it e mail or e-mail?

The correct spelling is always “e-mail” or “email,” but never “e mail.”

E-mail and email are different spelling variations and mean “electronic mail.”

What does email address mean?

“Email address” (or “e-mail address”) refers to a unique identifier, usually consisting of letters, numbers, and some symbols, that identifies where an email is being sent (e.g., “Please write down your email address to receive special offers”).

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Gina Rancaño, BA

Gina holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, as well as a certificate in professional and public writing from Florida International University. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading.