Language can be tricky, especially when a single letter changes everything. The words “totalling” and “totaling” may look similar, but they reveal a fascinating divide between British English spelling and American English spelling. For Americans, “totaling” fits the streamlined, no-frills approach of simplified English spelling, while British English keeps its traditional British spelling with the double ‘l’. These regional spelling conventions aren’t just quirks—they reflect centuries of linguistic evolution. Whether you’re adding up numbers in an accounting report or crafting polished professional emails, understanding the correct spelling of totalling vs totaling ensures your writing is clear, credible, and tailored to your audience.
Understanding Totalling and Totaling
To begin with, let’s look at the basics. Totalling definition and totaling definition are simple—they refer to the act of adding up numbers or calculating a total. For instance, when you sum up expenses or totals in a report, you’re either “totalling” or “totaling,” depending on your spelling choice.
The difference lies in the regional spelling conventions. British English follows the double consonant spelling rule, so “totalling” uses a double ‘l’. On the other hand, simplified English spelling, which is common in American English, prefers “totaling” with a single ‘l’.
The Difference Between Totalling and Totaling
British English: Totalling
In British English spelling, the correct form is “totalling.” This follows traditional rules where verbs ending with a vowel and ‘l’ double the ‘l’ when forming the present participle, especially when the stress is on the last syllable. For example, words like “travelling” and “cancelling” follow the same pattern.
American English: Totaling
American English spelling opts for “totaling,” dropping the second ‘l’ for simplicity. This difference stems from Noah Webster spelling reforms, which aimed to standardize and simplify English in the United States. Words like “traveling” and “canceling” are other examples of this change.
| Region | Spelling | Example Sentence |
| UK | Totalling | The accountant is totalling the expenses. |
| US | Totaling | The accountant is totaling the expenses. |
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Why Is There a Spelling Difference?
Historical Context
The spelling difference goes back to the early 19th century, when Noah Webster, an American lexicographer, introduced changes to make English spelling more logical. These changes led to UK vs US spelling norms. Webster believed dropping unnecessary letters, like the second ‘l’ in “totaling,” would make English easier to learn.
In contrast, British English retained its traditional British spelling, preserving older rules. This distinction between the British and American spelling rules has continued to shape written English worldwide.
Spelling and Style Guides: Which Should You Follow?
When to Use Totalling
If you’re writing for a UK audience or following professional writing standards in British English, use “totalling.” This is common in accounting and financial terminology and aligns with UK spelling norms.
When to Use Totaling
For U.S. readers or writing that adheres to American spelling rules, “totaling” is correct. This version is also recommended in spelling rules in professional contexts like business reports or academic papers intended for American audiences.
Regional English Differences
The Influence of Noah Webster
The double consonant spelling rule in British English was simplified in the U.S. by Noah Webster. His reforms introduced a more phonetic approach, which explains why “totaling” has one ‘l’. The result is a clear divergence in grammar and spelling differences between the two regions.
Examples of “Totalling” and “Totaling” in Sentences
Totalling:
- The team is totalling the scores for the final round.
- In her report, she is totalling the sales for the month.
Totaling:
- He is totaling the expenses for the project.
- The software is totaling all the data automatically.
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Totalling vs Totaling: The Key Differences
Example Scenario: Email to a British Client
When communicating with a British client, use the correct spelling of totalling to maintain professionalism. For example:
“Dear John, I am currently totalling the expenses for the last quarter and will share the report soon.”
Example Scenario: Email to an American Client
In contrast, for an American client, the correct spelling of totaling should be used. For instance:
“Dear Mary, I’m currently totaling the costs for the project and will send the summary shortly.”
Scenario Examples of Totalling and Totaling in Context
Business Context
In business, knowing your audience’s preferences matters. British companies often use “totalling” in accounting and financial terminology, while American firms rely on “totaling.”
Educational Context
In schools, especially in British or American English curriculums, students are taught the specific spelling variations in English based on their region.
Everyday Use
Everyday communication follows similar patterns. For example, British newspapers use “totalling,” while American blogs stick with “totaling.”
Usage in British vs American English
British Usage: Totalling in Accounting and Finance
In accounting and financial terminology, British English frequently uses “totalling” for consistency in professional writing standards.
American Usage: Totaling in Everyday Speech
In the U.S., “totaling” is preferred not only in professional contexts but also in casual communication, reflecting the simplified English spelling.
Synonyms of “Totalling” and “Totaling”
Example Scenario: Accounting Report
Synonyms like “summing up” or “adding together” can be used interchangeably, depending on the context. For example:
“The accountant is summing up all expenses to calculate the final total.”
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Adding Numbers: Totalling vs. Totaling
Persistent Procedure or Continuous Action?
The present participle of total implies an ongoing action. Whether you write “totalling” or “totaling,” the meaning remains the same—it’s about adding numbers to reach a total.
Accounting and Calculating Totals
Example Scenario: Accountant’s Report
An accountant in the UK might write:
“The team is totalling all invoices from last month.”
Meanwhile, in the U.S., they’d write:
“The team is totaling all invoices from last month.”
Trends of “Totalling” and “Totaling”
Search trends show that British vs American English preferences impact global usage. For example, “totalling” is more popular in Commonwealth countries, while “totaling” dominates in the U.S.
Related Terms and Synonyms for “Totalling” and “Totaling”
Related terms include “adding up,” “calculating totals,” and “summing amounts.” These terms can also clarify context, particularly in writing for international audiences.
FAQs
How do you use totalling?
“Totalling” is used in British English to describe the process of calculating a total, often in contexts like adding numbers or summarizing amounts.
What do you mean by totalling?
“Totalling” refers to the act of summing up or adding together numbers or amounts to reach a final total.
How do you spell totaled in the UK?
In the UK, “totaled” is spelled as “totalled” with a double ‘l,’ following British English conventions.
Is it totaling or totalling Canada?
Canada uses both “totalling” (British English) and “totaling” (American English), but “totalling” is more common.
Conclusion
In the debate of “totalling” vs “totaling”, both spellings are correct depending on your audience. British English spelling favors “totalling” with a double ‘l’, while American English spelling simplifies it to “totaling.” These differences reflect regional preferences and historical developments in language.
When writing, consider your readers and their location. Use “totalling” for British audiences and “totaling” for American ones. Understanding these spelling variations in English ensures professionalism and clarity, whether you’re crafting emails, reports, or articles.
Luna Jasper is an experienced blogger with a passion for language and grammar. At **Collective Nouns World**, she shares her expertise in exploring the fascinating world of collective nouns, making learning both engaging and fun. With years of writing and research under her belt, Luna’s insightful articles help readers understand and appreciate the English language.
