Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments: Correct Spelling (UK vs US)

Both “acknowledgements” and “acknowledgments” are correct.
Acknowledgments is preferred in American English, while acknowledgements is common in British English.

You finish writing a report, thesis, or book. Now it’s time to thank the people who helped you. But then a question appears: should you write acknowledgements or acknowledgments?

Many writers, students, and professionals search this question because both spellings appear online, in books, and even in official documents. The confusion grows when style guides, universities, and publishers use different versions. One extra letter“e”creates doubt about which form is correct.

This spelling issue matters more than it seems. Academic papers, business reports, websites, and formal writing often include a section to thank contributors. Using the right spelling helps your work look professional and consistent.

In this guide, you’ll get a quick answer, learn the history behind both spellings, see British vs American differences, and understand which version you should use. You’ll also find real-life examples, common mistakes, trends, and practical advice so you can choose the right form with confidence.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments – Quick Answer

Both spellings are correct, but usage depends on the audience:

Acknowledgments – American English (USA style)
Acknowledgements – British English (UK, Australia, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries)

Examples

The book includes a special Acknowledgments section. (US)
Her thesis has detailed Acknowledgements. (UK)

In short: Use the version your audience expects.

The Origin of Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments

The word comes from the verb acknowledge, which means to recognize, admit, or thank someone.

Word breakdown:

Acknowledge (verb)
- ment (noun form)
= Acknowledgment / Acknowledgement

The spelling difference began as English evolved in different regions. American English often simplifies spellings by dropping extra letters. British English tends to keep traditional forms.

This pattern appears in many words:

Judgment / Judgement
Aging / Ageing
Acknowledgment / Acknowledgement

Over time, both versions became accepted. Style guides, publishers, and institutions simply chose the form that matched their regional standard.

British English vs American English Spelling

Here is how the spellings differ by region:

Region	Preferred Spelling	Example
United States	Acknowledgments	The report includes acknowledgments.
United Kingdom	Acknowledgements	The thesis contains acknowledgements.
Australia	Acknowledgements	Formal acknowledgements section included.
Canada	Acknowledgements (most common)	Book acknowledgements page.
International/Global	Depends on audience	Choose one and stay consistent.

Key Rule

American English often removes extra letters. British English keeps them.

Which Spelling Should You Use?

Choosing the right spelling depends on your audience and purpose.

Use Acknowledgments if:

Your audience is in the United States
You follow American style guides (APA, Chicago, MLA)
Your organization uses US English

Use Acknowledgements if:

Your audience is in the UK or Commonwealth countries
You are writing a thesis for a British university
Your publisher follows British English

For Global Content

Pick one version and use it consistently throughout your document. Consistency matters more than the choice itself.

Common Mistakes with Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments

Many writers make small errors with this word.

Mistake	Correct Form
Aknowledgments	Acknowledgments
Acknowledment	Acknowledgment
Mixing both spellings in one document	Use only one version
Using US spelling in UK academic work	Match regional style

Tip

Always check your institution, publisher, or company style guide before finalizing your document.

Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments in Everyday Examples

Emails

I would like to express my sincere acknowledgments for your support.
Please see the acknowledgements section for team contributions.

Academic Writing

The thesis includes a detailed Acknowledgements page.

News and Reports

The annual report lists acknowledgments for partners and donors.

Social Media

Special acknowledgments to everyone who made this event possible!

Books and Publications

Most books include a separate Acknowledgments/Acknowledgements section to thank editors, mentors, and supporters.

Acknowledgements or Acknowledgments – Google Trends & Usage Data

Search data shows clear regional patterns:

United States: “Acknowledgments” dominates searches and publications.
United Kingdom & Australia: “Acknowledgements” is searched and used more.
Academic Searches: Both versions appear, depending on university location.
Global Web Content: American spelling appears slightly more due to US-based websites and platforms.

Context-Based Usage

Academic theses: Often British form outside the US
Business reports: Depends on company style
Online articles: Often American spelling for wider reach

Comparison Table: Acknowledgements vs Acknowledgments

Feature	Acknowledgments	Acknowledgements
English Type	American	British
Extra “e”	No	Yes
Common in USA	Yes	Rare
Common in UK/Commonwealth	Less common	Yes
Academic Usage	US universities	UK/Australian universities
Correctness	Correct	Correct

FAQs

1. Is acknowledgments or acknowledgements correct?

Both are correct. Use the version that matches your regional English.

2. Which spelling is used in the USA?

American English uses acknowledgments.

3. Which spelling is used in the UK?

British English prefers acknowledgements.

4. Can I use both spellings in one document?

No. Choose one version and stay consistent.

5. What do style guides recommend?

APA, MLA, and Chicago (US) recommend acknowledgments.

6. Which spelling is better for SEO?

American spelling often reaches a wider global audience, but both work.

7. Is “acknowledgement” wrong?

No. It is correct in British English.

Conclusion

The choice between acknowledgements and acknowledgments is not about right or wrong it is about audience and consistency. American English prefers the shorter form without the extra “e,” while British and Commonwealth English keep the traditional spelling. Both versions carry the same meaning and are widely accepted in formal writing.

Before choosing, think about where your readers are located and which style guide you follow. Academic work, business documents, books, and online content should match regional expectations. Most importantly, once you select a version, use it throughout your document to maintain a professional tone.

Understanding small spelling differences like this helps your writing look polished and credible. Whether you are writing a thesis, report, or website content, the right choice shows attention to detail and respect for your audience.

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