Bi Annual vs Biennial: Punctuation and Hyphenation Guide

Editorial Team · on 25 July 2026 · 6 min read · Last reviewed 25 July 2026

Bi annual refers to an event or publication that occurs twice a year, with or without a hyphen, while biennial means every two years. The short version: think of “bi” as two and “bien” as two years.

Key facts

• Bi annual can be hyphenated (bi-annual) or written as one word (biannual), but the meaning remains the same.
• Biennial events or publications occur every two years, not twice a year.
• According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, biennial is often confused with bi annual due to their similar prefixes.

Bi-annual vs. Biennial: Knowing the Difference

LABEL: In plain terms, “bi annual” is like a magazine that publishes new issues in January and July, whereas “biennial” is like the Olympic Games, which happen every four years but the term is often misused for events that occur every two years.

Key facts

• The term “bi annual” can be written as “biannual” or “bi-annual,” but all forms mean the same thing.
• “Biennial” is often mistakenly used to describe something that happens twice a year, but it actually means every two years.
• The confusion between these terms is common, even among native English speakers, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary.

Bi annual in Short Stories and Essays

Short story and essay collections often appear twice yearly. Many literary magazines and journals release new issues biannually, offering writers a space to present their work. For instance, The Paris Review is known for its bi annual issues, featuring a mix of classic and contemporary literature.

The first time I really looked at bi annual publications, I noticed how they create a sense of anticipation among readers and contributors alike. The periodic release of new content keeps the literary community engaged and eager for the next issue.

Biennial Events in the Literary World

Biennial events are less common in the literary world but still significant. These events often provide a larger platform for showcasing literary talent and fostering connections within the community.

For instance, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop hosts biennial public readings featuring renowned authors and alumni. These events draw large audiences and contribute to the vibrant literary scene in Iowa City.

How to Choose the Right Term

To determine whether to use “bi annual” or “biennial,” consider the frequency of the event or publication. If it occurs twice a year, use “bi annual.” If it occurs every two years, use “biennial.”

• Determine the frequency of the event or publication.
• If it happens twice a year, use “bi annual.”
• If it happens every two years, use “biennial.”
• Be consistent with your usage throughout your writing.

Bi annual Publications for Writers

For writers looking to publish their short stories and essays, there are numerous bi annual publications to consider. These journals often have specific submission guidelines and deadlines, so it’s essential to research each one thoroughly.

One notable bi annual publication is One Story, which features a single short story in each issue. The journal accepts submissions on a rolling basis and provides detailed guidelines on their website. Another option is AGNI, a literary magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, and non-fiction bi annually.

How to Submit to Bi annual Journals

To submit your work to bi annual journals, follow these steps:

1. Research the journal’s submission guidelines and deadlines.
2. Prepare your manuscript according to the guidelines.
3. Write a cover letter introducing yourself and your work.
4. Submit your manuscript through the journal’s preferred method (e.g., online submission form, email, postal mail).
5. Keep track of your submissions and follow up if necessary.

In my experience, submitting to literary journals can be a competitive process, so it’s crucial to be persistent and not get discouraged by rejections. Each submission is an opportunity to improve your craft and connect with the literary community.

Famous Short Stories and Essays

Bi annual publications often feature famous short stories and essays that have stood the test of time. These works can provide inspiration and insight for aspiring writers.

One notable example is “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor, which was first published in The New Yorker and later included in her acclaimed short story collection. Another famous essay is “Notes of a Native Son” by James Baldwin, which explores themes of race and identity.

• “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor
• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
• “Notes of a Native Son” by James Baldwin
• “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot

To explore more famous short stories and essays, check out the Homophones with Definition: Essential Guide for Essay Writers for a comprehensive list of notable works and their authors.

Bi annual vs. Biennial in Academic Publishing

Bi annual and biennial publications play a significant role in academic publishing. Researchers and scholars rely on these publications to stay updated on the latest findings and trends in their fields.

At its core, bi annual academic journals provide a regular platform for researchers to share their work, fostering continuous dialogue and collaboration. Biennial publications, on the other hand, often focus on more comprehensive reviews or special themes, offering in-depth analysis and synthesis of research.

The Homophones with Definition: Essential Guide for Essay Writers provides critical reviews of significant advances in the field of anthropology bi annually. The journal’s bi annual frequency ensures that researchers have regular access to up-to-date information and insights.

How to Stay Updated with Bi annual and Biennial Publications

To stay updated with bi annual and biennial publications in your field, consider the following steps:

• Subscribe to relevant journals and set up alerts for new issues.
• Follow academic publishers on social media for announcements and updates.
• Join professional organizations and networks that share information about new publications.
• Attend conferences and workshops where new research is often presented.
• Use academic databases and search engines to find and follow relevant journals.

Initially, attempting to follow bi annual and biennial publications, I saw the need for a systematic approach. Subscribing to journals and tracking publishers helped me stay updated on recent research in my area.

The bottom line: Knowing when to use “bi annual” and “biennial” is key for clear and accurate writing. Whether submitting work to journals or attending literary events, using the right term helps convey your message effectively.

Frequently asked questions

Is 'bi annual' ever correct without a hyphen?

Never. 'Bi annual' is always incorrect. The hyphenated form 'bi-annual' means occurring twice a year. The confusion arises because 'bi-' can also mean 'two,' but in this context, it's a prefix requiring a hyphen to link to the noun it modifies.

How does 'biennial' differ from 'bi-annual'?

While 'bi-annual' means happening twice a year, 'biennial' refers to events occurring every two years. For example, a plant might bloom biennially, or a conference might be biennial. The key distinction is the frequency and the absence of a hyphen in 'biennial.'

Can 'bi-annual' and 'biennial' be used interchangeably?

No. Despite the similar prefixes, they convey different meanings. Using 'biennial' for a twice-a-year event would be incorrect. Always verify the intended frequency: 'bi-annual' for biannual and 'biennial' for every-two-years occurrences.

Why do people confuse 'bi-annual' and 'biennial'?

The confusion stems from the shared 'bi-' prefix, which can imply 'two.' However, context and punctuation dictate the correct usage. 'Bi-annual' is hyphenated and refers to two occurrences per year, while 'biennial' pertains to a two-year interval without a hyphen.

Related Reading

• Finding the Best Literary Journals for Short Fiction

See also: Apart vs A Part: Correct Usage in Creative Writing.

See also: Lose v Loose: Clearing Up Common Writing Confusion.

See also: Mastering the Serial Comma Oxford Style in Essays.