Acknowledgement vs. Acknowledgment: What's the Difference?
Learn why acknowledgement and acknowledgment are both correct, where each spelling is preferred, and how to stay consistent, with a quiz and FAQs.
Acknowledgement and acknowledgment are both correct spellings of the same noun. Acknowledgment, without the second e, is the usual American form. Acknowledgement is more common in British English, although both forms appear in multiple regions and official names should be preserved.
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A global report uses acknowledgment in the contents page and acknowledgements above its thank-you section. Nothing about the meaning has changed, so the editor chooses the spelling required by the report's regional style and applies it consistently.
Acknowledgement vs. Acknowledgment at a glance
| Word | Typical role | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| acknowledgement | Variant noun spelling | recognition, confirmation, or an expression of thanks | The book ends with an acknowledgement of the research team. |
| acknowledgment | Variant noun spelling | recognition, confirmation, or an expression of thanks | We received an acknowledgment that the application was complete. |
How to use acknowledgement
Acknowledgement retains the final e of acknowledge before the suffix -ment. It is a common British spelling and is also seen elsewhere, especially in headings such as acknowledgements.
The book ends with an acknowledgement of the research team.
How to use acknowledgment
Acknowledgment drops the e before -ment and is the predominant American spelling. It can refer to recognition of a fact, confirmation of receipt, or a written expression of gratitude.
We received an acknowledgment that the application was complete.
Rules that make the choice easier
Prefer acknowledgment for US style
American publications and interfaces generally use acknowledgment and acknowledgments without the extra e.
Prefer acknowledgement for UK style
British publications commonly retain the e, although a specific organization may choose the shorter form in its house style.
Keep fixed labels unchanged
Legal forms, standards, book section titles, and software fields may prescribe a spelling. Match the official label when referring to it.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not claim that one spelling is universally incorrect.
- Avoid alternating acknowledgements and acknowledgments within one editorial style.
- Do not change a required legal or interface label merely to match personal preference.
Quick practice
1. Which spelling is the common American default?
Answer: acknowledgment
2. Which spelling is especially common in British English?
Answer: acknowledgement
3. Do the two spellings have different meanings?
Answer: No
Frequently asked questions
Is acknowledgement or acknowledgment correct?
Both are correct; the preferred form usually depends on regional or house style.
How is acknowledgment spelled in American English?
American English usually spells it acknowledgment, without the e after the g.
How is acknowledgement spelled in British English?
British English commonly uses acknowledgement, retaining the e.
Should a book heading be Acknowledgments or Acknowledgements?
Either can be correct. Follow the publisher's regional and house style consistently.