Backyard versus Back Yard

What is the Difference Between Backyard and Back Yard?

When to Use Backyard

Backyard can be a noun or an adjective.

As a noun, backyard means the part of a property that is behind a house or other structure.

Backyard can also be an adjective, where it describes an activity that takes place in the rear part of a property. A family might host a backyard barbecue, for instance. A backyard patio is a patio that is situated in the backyard.

When to Use Back Yard

Back yard has the same meaning as backyard but is composed of two separate words, rather than compounded into a single word.

Summary

Is it backyard or back yard? Backyard and back yard are two variants of a term that means the rear part of a property and can be used as an adjective or a noun.

Both spellings are acceptable.

Backyard is preferred in all contexts.