Cancelled or Canceled: Which Is Correct?
The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation
Cancelled or Canceled: Which Is Correct?
Let’s say you notice it’s raining so you decide not to visit the beach with your friends. Have you cancelled or canceled your plans? The answer might surprise you.
Why Cancelled and Canceled Are Both Technically Correct
Although many teachers and editors would prefer cancelled over canceled, the truth is that both are technically correct. Either spelling could appear in a dictionary, and both are perfectly fine to use.
However, that doesn’t mean you should always use either version interchangeably. As it turns out, one is more popular than the other in American English.
The Difference Between Cancelled and Canceled
Both words mean the same thing and have the same origin.
Cancelled is the original spelling, but you typically wouldn’t use it in American English. Cancelled (double “l”) is the preferred spelling in the United Kingdom, while canceled (one “l”) is the preferred spelling in the United States.
Such spelling variations can be common in the language we share with our friends across the pond. Just as Americans visiting England might see some words as being spelled differently from their own, so might our usage appear distinct to those whose English is learned in Commonwealth countries.
So Which One Should You Write?
Because canceled and cancelled are pronounced the same way, you’ll notice their difference primarily when they are spelled out. In that case, you can probably maintain your American-ness by using the single “l” version of canceled unless you have a good reason to choose differently.
You might ask why you would do that if both words mean the same thing and are technically correct in spite of their spellings. Here are a few reasons:
Some teachers, professors, and employers might not know that either version is correct (as you do), and they may think that your alternate spelling is wrong.
In some cases, using an alternate (but acceptable) spelling can draw undue attention to the spelling and detract from your point.
It’s possible that certain spell-checking software packages may flag your spelling as having an error even when you are technically correct.
Simply stated, it’s easier to follow prevailing usage as it concerns minor points of spelling and grammar as long as you are correct.
Add to Your Grammar Knowledge One Fun Article at a Time
Learning grammar can be fun if you approach it the right way. The more you learn, the better your writing and speaking can get! Visit us again soon to pick up more great tips and advice in the use of American English.
If the article or the existing discussions do not address a thought or question you have on the subject, please use the "Comment" box at the bottom of this page.
I was born and raised in Massachusetts and was taught the double “ll” version: cancelled. I use it to this day without issue. Perhaps it’s a New England thing.
I hoped that a more general rule about doubling/not doubling the last letter would be given.
You will find that information in our post Adding Suffixes: To Double or Not to Double Consonants.
The same is true I believe with traveled and travelled. As a former professor of electrical and computer engineering, I am aware of many of the variations of language in America and England, including pronunciation. But you are very correct in pointing out the reasons to be aware and the “dangers” of using one over the other, as I have encountered all of them in my professional career. Nonetheless, I have used both ways of spelling these words as to my whim and fancy at the moment.
Thank you for GrammarBook.com. I have been reading and using its insights for many, many years.