Judgment vs. Judgement – Which is Correct?
Quick Summary
The terms judgment and judgement both refer to the process of making a decision or forming an opinion. However, their usage largely depends on geographical preferences, with judgment being more prevalent in American English and judgement in British English. Understanding the context of their usage can help in choosing the correct form.
Judgment vs. Judgement – Which is Correct?
Both judgment and judgement are correct, but their usage differs based on the variant of English being employed. In American English, judgment is the preferred spelling and is used in legal contexts, whereas in British English, both forms are acceptable, although judgement is more common.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Judgment | Used primarily in American English. | The court’s judgment was final. |
| Judgement | Common in British English. | Her judgment was clouded by emotion. |
How to Use Judgment
When using judgment, remember that it is the preferred spelling in American English and is often encountered in legal documents and writings.
Example 1: The judge issued a stern judgment after the verdict was read.
Example 2: Good judgment is essential in making life decisions.
How to Use Judgement
Judgement is typically used in British English, and it often appears in more casual writings or discussions.
Example 1: He made a quick judgement about her character.
Example 2: Their judgement in selecting the project was questioned.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between judgment and judgement is crucial for effective communication. Whether you choose one over the other depends largely on whether you are writing in American or British English.