Is a hyphen used in a modifier with an adverb? “a barely-literate

the 2nd feels better

>>8058394
I'm sort of used to the first version since my native language uses hyphens quite often, but it always feels strange when used in English for some reason.

I could have told you a few weeks ago, we specifically went over it in my editing class.

As it stands, it's up to the predominant style of the editing/publishing house or even country as to which one is more right or acceptable.

For ly stuff you dont use a hyphen

>barely-literate
No because a "barely-literate" is not a thing. You're using barely to describe the nu male's level if literacy. You could put a hyphen between "nu" and "Male" though because although "nu" can describe "male," you're referring to a "nu-male."