Fulltime is typically used as an adjective to describe something that is permanent, lasting, or uninterrupted.

For example:

John works a fulltime job.

Mary is a fulltime student.

We offer fulltime customer support.

In these cases, fulltime is describing the noun that follows it (job, student, support). It indicates that these things are done on a continuous, constant basis.

Full Time (Two Words)

“Full time” is written as two separate words without a hyphen and used as a noun phrase. It can be used both as an adjective and an adverb. As an adjective, it describes the nature of a commitment or position (e.g., full-time job), and as an adverb, it modifies a verb to describe how someone works (e.g., works full time).

Example (Adjective): “He secured a full-time job after graduation.”

Example (Adverb): “She works full time to support her family.”

In following sentences, full time acts as a noun on its own describing a complete, continuous work schedule.

Jane is applying for full time jobs.

Many employees enjoy the perks of full time work.

He transitioned from part time to full time this year.

Full-Time (Hyphenated)

Full-time is hyphenated and used as an adjective describing a noun.

For example:

Jane wants to work full-time after graduation.

We’re hiring for a full-time position.

He has a full-time job with benefits.

Here, full-time is hyphenated and comes before a noun to classify or quantify it. It indicates the noun is something done on a permanent, professional basis.

Use of Hyphen According to Writing Styles

The decision to use “full-time” with a hyphen or “full time” without a hyphen can be influenced by the specific style guide or writing conventions being followed. Here are general guidelines based on common style preferences:

AP (Associated Press) Style

AP Style is commonly used for news, journalism, and media writing.

For “full time” as a noun phrase, AP Style does not use a hyphen.

Examples:

• Jane works full time while completing her degree.
• John asked his boss to transition from part time to full time.
• Working full time allows Mary to pay her bills more easily.
• The full time employees receive better health benefits.
• She is searching for a full time job in her field.

For “full-time” as a compound adjective, AP Style uses a hyphen.

Examples:

• Jane accepted a full-time position at the firm.
• The ad stated the company was hiring for a full-time job.
• He desires a full-time job with vacation time and benefits.
• She works as a full-time barista to pay for college.
• After graduation, he searched for a full-time teaching role.

For “fulltime” as an adjective, AP Style does not use a hyphen.

Examples:

• Jane works fulltime during her summer break from university.
• The receptionist works fulltime to handle daytime calls.
• The resort employs fulltime lifeguards during peak season.
• He runs a fulltime business specializing in web design services.
• Fulltime employees work 40+ hours per week at the company.

Chicago Manual of Style

Chicago Style is commonly used in book publishing and academic writing.

For “full time” as a noun phrase, Chicago Style does not use a hyphen:

• Mary transitioned from part time to full time work this year.
• Working full time allows John to afford an apartment downtown.
• The demands of full time employment have been an adjustment.
• She feels more financially stable with a full time job.
• Full time workers accrue paid vacation days.

For “full-time” as a compound adjective, Chicago Style uses a hyphen:

• After graduating, he searched for a full-time engineering position.
• Jane was offered a full-time job with benefits.
• The professor works full-time while conducting research.
• It is a fast-paced, full-time office job.
• Full-time staff enjoy the 401k retirement plan.

For “fulltime” as an adjective, Chicago Style does not use a hyphen:

• Jane works fulltime over her summer break.
• We hire fulltime employees to provide customer service.
• He runs a fulltime retail business in the city’s downtown.
• The spa employs fulltime massage therapists for appointments.
• Fulltime workers must commit 40+ hours per week.

Summary

The key rules are:

• Fulltime (one word) is an adjective describing a noun.
• Full-time (hyphenated) is an adjective preceding and classifying a noun.
• Full time (two words) is a noun phrase referring to permanent work.
• Apply the same formats to possessives like fulltime’s, full-time’s, and full time’s.
• Look at the surrounding context to determine the right usage.

So in summary, examine how the phrase is used in the sentence to decide between fulltime, full-time, or full time for clear, accurate writing. Following these standards will help ensure you choose the right format.