Australian Vs American English: 6 Essential Spelling Differences
When discussing the Australian vs American English, it’s easy to get caught up in the obvious pronunciation variations. However, spelling differences play a significant role as well and deserve equal attention. Australian English tends to follow the British spelling rules, which can be seen as more traditional or conservative. On the other hand, American English favours simplification, streamlining many words that can seem cumbersome in their British forms. This divergence reflects not just regional preferences but also the dynamic nature of language as it evolves and adapts to different cultures.
Here are 6 crucial Australian vs. American English spelling rules to learn and remember.
Table of Contents
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1. Summarise Vs. Summarize
The distinction between “summarise” and “summarize” exemplifies a notable spelling divergence between Australian and American English. In America, the preference for the “z” in “summarize” and similar words reflects not just a spelling choice but a phonetic one, aiming to mirror the more vibrant pronunciation that “z” offers, particularly in rapid speech where “s” sounds can blend smoothly into vowels. This choice emphasizes a clearer, more distinct sound that aligns with the American accent’s characteristics. Conversely, Australian English, following British tradition, opts for the “s” in “summarise,” adhering to a more conservative spelling approach that doesn’t necessarily seek to replicate pronunciation nuances in the same way.
More Examples:
Australian: organise, recognise, apologise
American: organize, recognize, apologize
2. Traveller Vs. Traveler
The difference in spelling between “traveller” and “traveler” showcases another rule where Australian English aligns with British spelling, doubling consonants where American English does not. This pattern emerges in words where the final consonant follows a short vowel in a stressed syllable. While British and Australian English double the consonant before adding endings like “-ing” or “-ed,” American English typically does not.
More Examples:
Australian: travelling, cancelled, fuelled
American: traveling, canceled, fueled
3. Colour Vs. Color
The difference between “colour” and “color” highlights American English’s inclination towards simplification by omitting letters that are no longer pronounced. This approach aims for efficiency, reflecting a step away from historical spellings that include silent or unpronounced letters, a remnant of English’s French influences. In contrast, Australian English maintains the traditional “ou” spelling, following British conventions.
More Examples:
Australian: flavour, honour, labour
American: flavor, honor, labor
4. Centre Vs. Center
“Centre” versus “center” underscores American English’s preference for phonetic spelling. While “centre” is used in Australian English, preserving the original French and Latin spelling, American English opts for “center.” This alteration is guided by a desire for spellings that closely match pronunciation, making the language more accessible and straightforward.
More Examples:
Australian: theatre, metre, litre
American: theater, meter, liter
5. Enrol Vs. Enroll
In an interesting reversal of the “traveller” vs. “traveler” pattern, when it comes to words like “enrol” vs. “enroll,” the roles are flipped. Australian and British English typically spell this word with a single “l,” as in “enrol” and “enrolment.” In contrast, American English doubles the “l,” resulting in “enroll” and “enrollment.”
More Examples:
Australian: fulfil, instalment, wilful
American: fulfill, installment, willful
6. Likeable Vs Likable
American English often drops the final “e” before adding a suffix, aiming for a more streamlined and simplified spelling. Meanwhile, Australian English, following the British tradition, keeps the silent “e,” which maintains its connection to the base word’s spelling.
More Examples:
Australian: acknowledgement, ageing, judgement,
American: acknowledgment, aging, judgment
Navigating Australian vs. American English spelling rules can be quite the adventure. Whether you’re intrigued by the linguistic twists or aiming to perfect your spelling for professional writing, mastering these subtleties can significantly enrich your command of the English language.
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