Acknowledgment vs. Acknowledgement – Which is Correct?
The words acknowledgment and acknowledgement are often confused due to their similar meanings and usage. This article will clarify the differences and contexts in which each term is appropriate.
Acknowledgment vs. Acknowledgement – Which is Correct?
Both acknowledgment and acknowledgement are correct spellings of the same word, but their usage varies based on geographical preference. The version with no “e” (acknowledgment) is predominantly used in American English, while the version with the “e” (acknowledgement) is more common in British English and other varieties of English.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Acknowledgment | Common in American English. | The professor received an acknowledgment for her contributions to the research. |
| Acknowledgement | Common in British and other English varieties. | The author included an acknowledgement to thank her mentors. |
How to Use Acknowledgment
To correctly use acknowledgment, employ it in contexts where you are recognizing someone’s efforts or contributions, particularly in American English settings.
Example 1: The team issued an acknowledgment of the volunteers’ hard work during the event.
Example 2: He received an official acknowledgment from the committee for his dedication to the project.
How to Use Acknowledgement
When using acknowledgement, do so in instances where you want to express appreciation, typically in British English contexts.
Example 1: The report included an acknowledgement of the resources provided by various organizations.
Example 2: In her book, she added an acknowledgement section for her family and friends.
Conclusion
In summary, both acknowledgment and acknowledgement are correct, with their usage largely depending on regional spelling preferences. Understanding these distinctions will enhance your writing clarity and appropriateness.
