One of the most persistent debates in written communication involves the spelling of “acknowledgment” versus “acknowledgement.” Both spellings are correct, but their usage depends on regional language conventions. Understanding these subtle differences can improve your writing and help you connect better with your target audience.
American English favors “acknowledgment,” while British English prefers “acknowledgement.” This seemingly minor difference can significantly impact how your content is received by local and global audiences. Whether writing a formal document or casual message, knowing which version to use can substantially benefit your communication.
Definition and Meaning
The words “acknowledgment” and “acknowledgement” are synonyms that mean expressing gratitude, recognition, or appreciation for someone or something. Both spellings derive from the same root meaning and have identical definitions—the only difference lies in regional spelling conventions.
“Acknowledgement” includes an extra “e” and is common in British English, while “acknowledgment” is the preferred form in American English. This distinction arose from historical language preferences in different English-speaking regions.
Major dictionaries, including Merriam-Webster and Oxford Dictionaries, recognize both spellings and indicate their respective geographical usage. Americans typically use “acknowledgment,” while those in the UK use “acknowledgement.” This distinction is important because your audience’s location can determine your text’s authenticity and credibility.
Historical Context
The spellings “acknowledgment” and “acknowledgement” trace back to Old and Middle English, derived from “acknow” (to recognize) and “ledgment” (form of action or result).
The spelling divergence began in the 18th century when British English retained the “e” while American English adopted simplified spelling. Lexicographer Noah Webster significantly influenced this change in American English. His 1828 publication, “An American Dictionary of the English Language,” formalized many spelling differences and promoted simplified spelling in the United States.
Early British literature consistently used “acknowledgement,” while American publications preferred “acknowledgment.” This variance reflected broader linguistic trends in these dialects. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, authors and scholars followed their regional norms, cementing the division that persists today.
Regional Spelling Conventions
Both spellings are correct, but their usage varies by geographical region.
American English
In American English, “acknowledgment” is the standard spelling. Leading American dictionaries like Merriam-Webster endorse this choice. Academic papers, business documents, and general communication in the US predominantly use “acknowledgment.” Using this spelling in American contexts ensures proper communication and demonstrates language proficiency.
British English
In British English, “acknowledgement” is the preferred spelling. British lexicographical resources such as Oxford Dictionaries support this form. Official documents, academic writing, and general communication in the UK typically use “acknowledgement.” Employing this spelling in British settings maintains consistency with accepted norms.
Acknowledgments in Notarization
In notarial practice, an “acknowledgment” (or “acknowledgement” in British contexts) has a specific legal meaning distinct from general usage. A notarial acknowledgment is a formal declaration before a notary public in which a signer confirms that they signed a document willingly and understands its contents.
The Notarial Acknowledgment Process
When a document requires notarization through acknowledgment, the signer must personally appear before a notary public and acknowledge that:
- They are the person named in the document
- They signed the document voluntarily
- They understand the document’s purpose and effect
- The signature on the document is their own
The notary then completes an acknowledgment certificate, which includes specific wording prescribed by state law in the United States or by regional regulations in other jurisdictions. This certificate typically contains the notary’s signature, seal, commission expiration date, and a statement confirming the signer’s acknowledgment.
Acknowledgment vs. Jurat
It’s important to distinguish between an acknowledgment and a jurat, another common notarial act. An acknowledgment focuses on identity verification and voluntary signing, while a jurat requires the signer to swear or affirm the document’s contents are truthful in the notary’s presence.
Regional Spelling in Notarial Documents
In American notarial practice, all official forms, certificates, and documentation use “acknowledgment” exclusively. State notary handbooks, statutes, and certificate forms consistently employ this spelling. Using “acknowledgement” on American notarial certificates could be seen as non-standard, though it wouldn’t necessarily invalidate the notarization.
British and Commonwealth notarial systems use “acknowledgement” in their official documentation and legal frameworks. Notaries practicing in these jurisdictions follow local spelling conventions in all certificates and records.
Digital Notarization
With the rise of remote online notarization (RON) and electronic notarization, the term “acknowledgment” appears frequently in digital platforms and software. Most American-based notarization technology platforms use “acknowledgment,” reflecting their development and primary market in the United States.
Legal Context and Documentation
Beyond notarization, the spelling of “acknowledgment” or “acknowledgement” carries significance in various legal contexts and official documents.
Legal Documents and Contracts
In legal writing, consistency with jurisdictional spelling conventions is essential. American legal documents—including contracts, deeds, powers of attorney, and court filings—universally use “acknowledgment.” This spelling appears in legal statutes, case law citations, and official forms throughout the United States legal system.
British legal systems, including those in the UK, Australia, Canada, and other Commonwealth nations, typically use “acknowledgement” in their legal documentation. Lawyers, solicitors, and legal professionals in these jurisdictions follow this convention in contracts, property transfers, and court documents.
Real Estate Transactions
Real estate documentation provides a clear example of regional spelling importance. American property deeds, mortgage documents, and title transfers use “acknowledgment” when referring to notarial certificates. These documents often include phrases like “acknowledgment before a notary public” or “properly acknowledged and recorded.”
In British and Commonwealth property law, similar documents employ “acknowledgement” when describing the verification process. Property registries and land offices in these regions maintain this spelling in all official records.
Court Documents and Legal Filings
Court systems follow strict formatting requirements, including proper spelling conventions. American courts expect “acknowledgment” in all filings, motions, and legal briefs. Federal and state court rules, when they reference acknowledgments, use the American spelling exclusively.
Courts in British legal systems require “acknowledgement” in their documentation. Legal professionals appearing before these courts must adhere to local spelling standards to maintain professional credibility and ensure their documents meet formal requirements.
International Legal Matters
When legal documents cross international borders, spelling consistency becomes more complex. International treaties, agreements, and contracts involving parties from different English-speaking regions may need to establish which spelling convention to follow. Often, the choice depends on the governing law clause within the agreement.
For documents requiring recognition in multiple jurisdictions, legal professionals sometimes include a statement noting that both spellings refer to the same legal concept. This clarification helps prevent confusion and ensures enforceability across borders.
Statutory Language
Legislative bodies maintain spelling consistency within their jurisdictions. American federal and state statutes use “acknowledgment” when describing notarial acts, legal procedures, or formal recognitions. The Uniform Law Commission, which drafts model laws for adoption by states, consistently uses “acknowledgment” in all its published acts.
Parliamentary systems in Commonwealth nations use “acknowledgement” in their statutory language. Acts of Parliament, regulations, and legal codes in these jurisdictions reflect British English conventions throughout their texts.
Professional Standards
Legal professionals receive training in proper spelling conventions specific to their jurisdiction. American law schools, bar associations, and continuing legal education programs emphasize using “acknowledgment” in all legal writing. Style guides for legal writing, such as The Bluebook in the United States, specify this spelling.
British legal education and professional development programs similarly stress the importance of using “acknowledgement” correctly. Professional standards organizations in these regions view proper spelling as a mark of legal competence and attention to detail.
Impact on Different Types of Writing
The choice between “acknowledgment” and “acknowledgement” significantly affects writing style and reader perception.
Professional Writing
In business communication, using the correct regional spelling demonstrates cultural awareness and attention to detail. American companies typically use “acknowledgment” in reports, emails, and contracts, while British companies prefer “acknowledgement.” Proper usage reduces misunderstandings and enhances professional credibility.
Academic Writing
Academic institutions are particularly concerned with correct regional spelling. American educational settings use “acknowledgment” in theses, research papers, and scholarly articles, while British institutions use “acknowledgement.” Consistency with regional conventions is crucial in academic writing to maintain institutional standards and avoid confusion.
Everyday Communication
Daily communication follows the same regional patterns. Americans typically write “acknowledgment” in personal correspondence, while British speakers use “acknowledgement.” Maintaining consistency with local conventions helps ensure clear, effective communication.
Common Misconceptions
Several misunderstandings surround these spellings:
Both spellings are incorrect assumptions: Many believe one spelling is right and the other wrong. In reality, both are perfectly acceptable—the choice depends on geographical location.
Different meanings myth: Some think the words have different definitions. Both refer to expressing gratitude or recognition, with identical meanings.
Education level indicators: Using either spelling doesn’t indicate education level. Both are appropriate in professional contexts when following regional conventions.
Dictionary preferences: People often think dictionaries support only one spelling. Reputable dictionaries acknowledge both spellings according to regional usage.
Modern vs. traditional: Some believe “acknowledgment” is a recent variation. Actually, this spelling dates back to the 18th century, not a modern development.
Best Practices for Writers
Follow these guidelines to choose the appropriate spelling:
Know Your Audience
For American audiences: Use “acknowledgment” in academic papers, business documents, and everyday communication. Maintain consistency throughout your writing.
For British audiences: Choose “acknowledgement” for academic situations, official documents, and informal writing. Ensure uniformity across all your materials.
Maintain Consistency
Never mix spellings within the same document, as this confuses readers and undermines credibility. Choose one spelling based on your primary audience and stick with it throughout.
Professional Standards
Consistency demonstrates professionalism and cultural awareness. Americans expect “acknowledgment” in business reports and contracts, while British readers prefer “acknowledgement.” Following local standards shows respect for regional conventions and enhances your message’s effectiveness.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between “acknowledgment” and “acknowledgement” enhances communication effectiveness. These spelling variations reflect cultural backgrounds and preferences developed over centuries. Adhering to regional standards ensures clarity and maintains professional credibility.
Writers should use “acknowledgment” for American English-speaking audiences and “acknowledgement” for British English contexts. This approach demonstrates cultural awareness and helps readers connect with content more effectively.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between “acknowledgment” and “acknowledgement”? The only difference is spelling. “Acknowledgment” is standard in American English, while “acknowledgement” is preferred in British English. Both have identical meanings.
Can these spellings be used interchangeably? While both are correct, they shouldn’t be used interchangeably within the same document. Choose one based on your audience’s regional conventions and maintain consistency.
When did the spelling differences emerge? The differences developed in the 18th century, formalized by Noah Webster’s 1828 American dictionary, which promoted simplified spelling in American English while British English retained traditional forms.
Why should I use regional spelling? Using appropriate regional spelling improves readability, demonstrates cultural awareness, and maintains professionalism, especially in academic and business contexts.
How do I choose the right spelling? Use “acknowledgment” for American audiences and “acknowledgement” for British audiences. Consider your primary readership and follow their regional conventions consistently.
Is mixing spellings acceptable? No, mixing spellings within the same document can confuse readers and appear unprofessional. Choose one spelling and use it consistently throughout your writing.
Do these conventions still matter today? Yes, regional spelling conventions remain important in professional, academic, and business communication. Americans typically expect “acknowledgment” while British readers prefer “acknowledgement.”
