Judgement and judgment are both correct spellings of the same word, but the preferred form depends on the variety of English you use. The confusion exists because British and American English follow different spelling conventions, and even British publishers sometimes prefer different versions.
In this guide, you will learn the difference between judgement and judgment, their history, regional usage, grammar rules, examples, common mistakes, and how to choose the right spelling for your audience.
Quick Answer
Both judgement and judgment mean the ability to make good decisions, an opinion, or a decision made by a court.
- Judgment is the standard spelling in American English.
- Judgement is commonly used in British English, although judgment is also accepted in legal and formal British writing.
Examples
- Her judgment helped the team avoid a costly mistake. (American English)
- His judgement was respected by everyone in the company. (British English)
- The court delivered its final judgment yesterday.
- Good judgement comes with experience.
The Origin of Judgement or Judgment
The word comes from the Old French jugement, which came from the Latin judicium, meaning “decision” or “trial.”
In Middle English, writers used several spellings because English had no fixed spelling rules. Over time, American English simplified many spellings, making judgment the preferred form. British English continued using judgement in many everyday contexts because the extra e matched the spelling of the verb judge.
Today, both spellings have the same meaning. The difference is mainly based on regional writing styles rather than grammar.
British English vs American English Spelling
The main difference is where the word is used.
| British English | American English |
|---|---|
| Judgement (common) | Judgment (standard) |
| Judgment (often used in legal writing) | Judgment (used everywhere) |
| Used in books, schools, and media | Used in education, business, and government |
Examples
| British English | American English |
|---|---|
| She showed good judgement. | She showed good judgment. |
| The teacher praised his judgement. | The teacher praised his judgment. |
| The court issued its judgment. | The court issued its judgment. |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Choose the spelling that matches your readers.
- Use judgment if you write for people in the United States.
- Use judgement for most British, Australian, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth audiences.
- If you are writing legal documents in the UK, check your style guide because many courts prefer judgment.
- For international readers, either spelling is acceptable, but stay consistent throughout your writing.
Common Mistakes with Judgement or Judgment
Many writers make simple spelling mistakes because they mix British and American English.
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| The judge gave his judgement in an American report. | The judge gave his judgment in an American report. |
| Her judgment was excellent. (British article using judgement everywhere else.) | Keep one spelling throughout the article. |
| Good judgements are important. | Good judgment or good judgements, depending on context. |
Tips
- Match your spelling to your audience.
- Stay consistent in one document.
- Follow your company’s or publisher’s style guide.
Judgement or Judgment in Everyday Examples
In Emails
- Thank you for your good judgment during the project.
- I appreciate your careful judgement on this matter.
In News
- The Supreme Court announced its final judgment today.
- The editor questioned the minister’s judgement.
On Social Media
- Trust your judgment.
- Good judgement comes from experience.
In Formal Writing
- Professional judgment is required before making a final decision.
- The committee relied on expert judgement to approve the proposal.
Judgement or Judgment – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows that judgment is much more popular worldwide because American English has a larger online presence.
- United States: Almost always judgment.
- United Kingdom: Judgement is common, but judgment also appears in legal writing.
- Canada: Both spellings are used, depending on the publication.
- Australia and New Zealand: Judgement is generally preferred.
- International websites: Judgment often appears because many global businesses follow American English.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Judgement | Judgment |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Opinion, decision, legal ruling | Opinion, decision, legal ruling |
| Correct? | Yes | Yes |
| British English | Preferred in general writing | Accepted, especially in law |
| American English | Rare | Standard |
| Formal Writing | Accepted | Accepted |
| Legal Documents | Sometimes used | Often preferred |
| Recommended Audience | UK and Commonwealth | United States and international business |
FAQs
Is judgement or judgment correct?
Both are correct. The preferred spelling depends on whether you use British or American English.
Why does British English use judgement?
British English often keeps the extra e because it matches the spelling of the verb judge.
Is judgment wrong in the UK?
No. Judgment is widely accepted, especially in legal documents and official publications.
Which spelling should students use?
Students should follow the spelling style required by their school, university, or teacher.
Which spelling is better for SEO?
Choose the version your target audience searches for. American websites usually use judgment, while British websites often use judgement.
Does the meaning change?
No. Both spellings have exactly the same meaning.
Can I use both spellings in one article?
No. Choose one spelling and use it consistently throughout your content.
Conclusion
Judgement and judgment are both correct spellings, but judgment is the standard in American English, while judgement is more common in British English outside many legal contexts. The easiest way to avoid mistakes is to choose the spelling that matches your audience and keep it consistent from start to finish.
If you write for a global audience, check your style guide before publishing. You may also enjoy reading our related guide on “grey or gray” to understand another common British and American English spelling difference.
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