Meaning & use
toll free or toll-free
Last updated
Meanings
adjectivebefore a noun
Free of charge for the caller; not requiring payment to make a call.
Grammar: Usually hyphenated when it comes before a noun: a toll-free number.
Patterns
- toll-free number
- toll-free line
Please call our toll-free number for assistance.
They offer a toll-free hotline for customers.
adverbafter a verb
Without charge for the caller; in a way that does not cost the caller money.
Grammar: Often written without a hyphen after a verb: call toll free.
Patterns
- call toll free
- dial toll free
You can reach us toll free from anywhere in the country.
The support line is available toll free 24/7.
Common combinations
- toll-free number
- The toll-free number is listed on our website.
- call toll free
- Customers can call toll free to place an order.
- toll-free hotline
- The toll-free hotline is open during business hours.
Synonyms and how they differ
- freephone
- Common in British English; refers to a service that is free to the caller.
Commonly confused: toll free or toll-free or free?
toll free or toll-free vs free
'Free' is a general term meaning no cost; 'toll-free' specifically means no charge for a telephone call.
Practice
Which sentence uses the correct form?
Choose one answer.
When used as an adjective before a noun, the standard spelling is 'toll-free' with a hyphen. 'Toll free' without a hyphen is used after a verb.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “toll free or toll-free”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.