Judgment is the standard American English spelling, while judgement is common in general British English. Both forms are used in Britain, especially in legal writing. The meaning stays the same.
Quick Answer: Judgement or Judgment?
- US English: Use judgment.
- UK English: Judgement is common in general writing; judgment is widely used in law.
- Meaning: An opinion, decision, or ability to make sensible choices.
Judgment vs. Judgement at a Glance
| Spelling | Common usage | Example |
| Judgment | Standard American spelling; common in legal writing | The court issued its judgment. |
| Judgement | Common in general British writing | She showed sound judgement. |
What Do Judgment and Judgement Mean?
Both spellings refer to an opinion reached after considering information. The word can also describe the ability to make sensible choices. In law, a judgment is a court’s formal decision.
- She showed good judgment under pressure.
- His judgement was questioned after the mistake.
Why Are There Two Spellings?
The difference is historical and regional. Judgment became the preferred American spelling, while judgement remained common in British English. Britain accepts both, with judgment particularly established in legal contexts. The extra e does not change the meaning or pronunciation.
When to Use Judgment or Judgement
Use judgment in American English, including good judgment, poor judgment, and a judgment call. In British English, judgement is common in general writing, while judgment is often used for a court ruling. Follow your publication’s style guide and stay consistent.
Common Mistakes
- Judgement is British-only: Judgment is also used in Britain, particularly in law.
- Judgment is American-only: It also appears in British legal writing.
- They mean different things: Both have the same basic meaning.
Pronunciation
Judgment and judgement are pronounced the same, usually in two syllables: /ˈdʒʌdʒ.mənt/.
Examples of Judgment and Judgement
- She showed excellent judgment under pressure.
- His poor judgment caused problems.
- The court issued its judgment on Monday.
- She used careful judgement before accepting the offer.
- Good judgement helps in difficult situations.
- The committee praised his sound judgement.
Memory Trick to Avoid Confusion
US: judgment.
UK general writing: judgement.
Legal writing: judgment is common.
Mini Quiz
1. Which spelling is standard in American English? A. Judgement B. Judgment
2. Which spelling is common in general British writing? A. Judgment B. Judgement
3. Do the words have different meanings? A. Yes B. No
Answers: 1-B, 2-B, 3-B.
FAQs
Is judgement or judgment correct?
Both are used. Judgment is standard in American English; judgement is common in general British writing.
Judgment or judgement: which should I use?
Use judgment in US English. In British English, follow your style guide; both forms are used.
Are judgment and judgement pronounced differently?
No. They sound the same; only the spelling differs.
Key Takeaways
- Judgment is standard in American English.
- Judgement is common in general British writing.
- Both forms share the same meaning and pronunciation.
Conclusion
Judgement or Judgment? US vs. UK Spelling Guideis the usual American spelling, while judgement is common in general British writing. Both appear in British English, so follow your audience’s style and stay consistent.
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William Strunk is a respected authority on English grammar, usage, and writing style, known for his influential work The Elements of Style. At EduNexxa, his focus is on clear, concise, and effective English.
Bryan Garne
Mignon Fogarty