Apologising or Apologizing: Which Spelling is Correct?
Hey, have you ever had one of those moments where you’re not sure whether to use apologising or apologizing? Well, I recently ran into this exact issue, and honestly, it was a bit confusing at first.
I was writing an important email and wasn’t sure which spelling was correct. So, I took a step back and researched it carefully.
I found out that both are correct, but it really depends on whether you’re following British or American English.
I made sure to adjust my writing accordingly, and it actually helped me avoid sounding unprofessional. I thought sharing this little experience could save you the headache I went through!
Knowing if you want to use apologising or apologizing can be confusing. Both are correct, but their usage depends on where you are writing.
Many people search for this term to ensure their writing is correct in emails, articles, or formal documents. Understanding the difference saves mistakes and makes your writing look professional.
In this article, we’ll break down the correct spelling, explain the origin, compare British and American English usage, and provide practical examples for everyday writing.
Apologising or Apologizing – Quick Answer
- Apologising → British English spelling.
- Apologizing → American English spelling.
Example:
- British English: “He is apologising for the mistake.”
- American English: “He is apologizing for the mistake.”
Both forms mean the act of saying sorry, and the difference is only regional.
The Origin of Apologising/Apologizing
The word apologise comes from the Greek word apologia, meaning a formal defense or excuse. The “-ize” ending originates from the Greek -izein, which passed into Latin and later English. British English often changes the “-ize” to “-ise,” while American English keeps the “-ize” spelling.
British English vs American English Spelling
| Feature | British English | American English |
| Present participle | apologising | apologizing |
| Past tense | apologised | apologized |
| Common use | UK, Australia, Canada | USA |
Rule: In British English, verbs ending in “-ize” can often be written “-ise.” American English consistently uses “-ize.”
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Use apologising if writing for a UK or Commonwealth audience.
- Use apologizing if writing for a US audience.
- For global content, choose based on your target audience or maintain consistency with one style.
Common Mistakes with Apologising/Apologizing
- Mixing spellings in the same text: “He is apologising for the error and apologizing to the team.” ✅ Correct: Choose one style.
- Wrong tense: “He apologises yesterday.” ❌ Correct: “He apologised yesterday.”
- Confusing with similar verbs: appologize ❌ (incorrect spelling).
Apologising/Apologizing in Everyday Examples
- Email: “I am apologising for the delay in response.”
- News headline: “Mayor apologizing after public backlash.”
- Social media: “We’re apologising for the mistake. #Sorry”
- Formal writing: “The company is apologising to its clients for the inconvenience caused.”
Apologising or Apologizing – Google Trends & Usage Data
- Searches for apologising are highest in the UK, Australia, and Canada.
- Searches for apologizing are dominant in the US.
- Globally, apologizing shows more overall searches due to American English influence on the internet.
Keyword Variations Comparison
| Variation | Region | Usage Example |
| Apologising | UK, AU, CA | “She is apologising for the error.” |
| Apologizing | US | “He is apologizing to his teacher.” |
| Apologised | UK | “They apologised yesterday.” |
| Apologized | US | “They apologized yesterday.” |
FAQs
1. Is “apologising” incorrect in the US?
No, it’s understood, but “apologizing” is standard.
2. Can I use “apologizing” in the UK?
Yes, but “apologising” is preferred in formal writing.
3. Which spelling should I use in emails?
Follow your audience’s regional convention.
4. Is the meaning different?
No, both spellings mean the act of saying sorry.
5. Does “-ise” vs “-ize” apply to other words?
Yes, words like “realise/realize” follow the same British vs American rule.
6. Are there style guides that prefer one?
Yes, Oxford uses “-ize” even in British English, but most UK publications use “-ise.”
7. How do I remember which to use?
Think regionally: UK → “-ise”, US → “-ize”.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between apologising and apologizing is simple once you know your audience. British English prefers apologising, while American English uses apologizing. Both forms are correct, and their meaning is identical.
Always maintain consistency within a document and match the spelling to your target audience. Knowing this distinction prevents common writing mistakes, improves clarity, and ensures professional communication. Whether in emails, social media, or formal writing, choosing the correct form shows attention to detail and cultural awareness.
I am a professional English language writer and editor with a strong focus on word comparisons, spelling differences, and usage clarity. I specialize in explaining confusing English words in a simple, reader-friendly way. With a background in linguistics and digital content writing, Rachel helps learners understand British vs American English, commonly confused terms, and everyday grammar mistakes.
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