Totaling vs. Totalling – Which is Correct?
Quick Summary
The terms totalling and totaling often create confusion, but they have distinct usage based on regional language variations. While both words relate to the act of summing or counting, totalling is primarily used in British English, whereas totaling is favored in American English.
Totalling vs. Totaling – Which is Correct?
Both totalling and totaling are correct, but their usage depends on the audience. Totalling is the preferred spelling in British English, while totaling is the correct form in American English.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Totalling | Use in British English contexts. | The totalling of the expenses took several hours. |
| Totaling | Use in American English contexts. | The totaling of the invoices was completed quickly. |
How to Use Totalling
When using the word totalling, it is important to ensure that your audience is familiar with British English conventions. It is typically used in contexts involving finances, calculations, or summations.
Example 1: After totalling the receipts, she found unexpected expenses.
Example 2: The report required a complete totalling of all income sources.
How to Use Totaling
The word totaling should be utilized when writing for an American audience or in any context where American English is preferred. It holds the same meaning as its British counterpart, focusing on summing or concluding amounts.
Example 1: The accounting team is responsible for totaling the budget by the end of the month.
Example 2: Totaling the points from the game was crucial for determining the winner.
Exceptions in Usage
While there are no strict exceptions governing the use of totalling and totaling, it is important to consider the context and audience. In informal settings, you might occasionally see variations, but adhering to regional standards will enhance clarity.
Practice Exercises
Provide at least 5 exercises for readers to test themselves:
- Fill in the blank: The accountant is __________ (totalling/totaling) the yearly expenses.
- Choose the correct spelling: She spent the afternoon __________ (totalling/totaling) the points from the quiz.
- Identify the incorrect usage: “The report from the finance department is totaling the funds accurately.”
- Correct the sentence: “Their totalling method was inefficient and time-consuming.”
- Provide an example sentence using “totaling” in an American context.
Answer Key
- totaling
- totaling
- totalling
- totaling
- Answers may vary, e.g., “Totaling the sales figures helped the company assess their performance.”
Conclusion
In summary, totalling and totaling are two correct spellings that depend on the regional form of English used. Understanding the context will ensure effective communication and accuracy in your writing.
