Language can be a maze of twists and turns, especially when it comes to spelling. One of the most common conundrums faced by writers is whether to use “totalling” or “totaling.” At first glance, they might seem like interchangeable spellings of the same word, but their usage depends on specific rules tied to regional spelling conventions. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between these two forms, delve into their origins, and provide practical guidance for their correct usage. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to use the right form in your writing.
The Basics of British and American English
Before diving into the specifics of “totalling” and “totaling,” let’s set the stage with a quick look at British and American English spelling conventions. The English language, though universal, often exhibits significant regional variations. One major difference lies in how suffixes are applied to root words.
In British English, verbs ending in a single vowel followed by a consonant typically double the consonant before adding a suffix like “-ing” or “-ed.” This practice helps maintain the short vowel sound in the root word. For instance:
Travel → Travelling (British English)
Cancel → Cancelling (British English)
American English, on the other hand, often omits this doubling of the consonant unless the stress falls on the last syllable of the root word. This results in:
Travel → Traveling (American English)
Cancel → Canceling (American English)
With this foundational understanding, let’s examine how these rules apply to “totalling” and “totaling.”
Totalling: The British Preference
“Totalling” with a double “L” is the standard form in British English. This follows the rule of doubling the consonant when adding a suffix to maintain consistency in pronunciation and spelling. Examples include:
“She spent hours totalling the expenses for the office party.”
“The final score was announced after totalling all the points.”
The use of the double “L” can feel more intuitive to those familiar with British English, as it aligns with similar words like “travelling” or “signalling.”
Totaling: The American Style
“Totaling” with a single “L” is the preferred spelling in American English. This follows the American convention of not doubling the consonant when the stress doesn’t fall on the final syllable of the root word. For example:
“The accountant was busy totaling the annual profits.”
“Totaling the votes took longer than expected.”
American English tends to prioritize simplicity in spelling, and the single “L” reflects this streamlined approach.
Why Do These Differences Exist?
The divergence between British and American spelling conventions can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Noah Webster, an American lexicographer, aimed to simplify English spelling in his dictionaries, removing what he saw as unnecessary letters and aligning words more closely with their pronunciation. This approach gave rise to differences such as “color” vs. “colour” and “realize” vs. “realise.”
British English, meanwhile, retained many of the traditional spellings and rules, which often reflect the influence of French and Latin. As a result, the doubling of consonants in verbs like “totalling” became the norm.
Practical Guidelines for Usage
If you’re writing in an academic, professional, or creative context, it’s essential to be consistent with your spelling. Here’s how to decide between “totalling” and “totaling”:
- Know Your Audience
The most important factor in choosing the correct form is understanding your audience. If you’re writing for a predominantly British audience, use “totalling.” For an American audience, “totaling” is the way to go.
- Follow Style Guides
Many organizations and publications adhere to specific style guides, such as:
The Chicago Manual of Style (American English)
The Oxford Style Manual (British English)
AP Stylebook (American English)
The Guardian and Observer Style Guide (British English)
Check the style guide relevant to your context to ensure consistency.
- Leverage Spell-Check Tools
Modern word processors like Microsoft Word and Google Docs have built-in spell-check features that can automatically detect and suggest the correct spelling based on your chosen language setting. Set your document’s language to either British or American English to avoid errors.
- Use Contextual Clues
If you’re unsure about your audience or setting, consider the broader context of your writing. Are you using other British spellings like “colour” and “favour”? If so, “totalling” would align better. Similarly, if your writing includes American spellings like “honor” and “realize,” opt for “totaling.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When navigating spelling differences, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some tips to stay on track:
Avoid Mixing Styles: Mixing British and American spellings in the same document can confuse readers and appear unprofessional.
Proofread Carefully: Always review your work to catch inconsistencies, especially when switching between spelling conventions.
Consult Reliable Resources: Online dictionaries like Merriam-Webster (American English) and Oxford English Dictionary (British English) can clarify the correct spelling for your intended audience.
Examples of “Totalling” and “Totaling” in Action
Let’s look at some sentences that showcase the correct usage of these forms:
British English: “After totalling the expenses, the manager realized they had exceeded the budget.”
American English: “The students spent the afternoon totaling the scores for their science project.”
Notice how the context of the sentence doesn’t change, but the spelling aligns with regional conventions.
The Importance of Consistency
Consistency is key when it comes to spelling. Whether you choose “totalling” or “totaling,” sticking to one form throughout your writing ensures clarity and professionalism. Readers are more likely to trust your content when it’s polished and free of spelling inconsistencies.
Conclusion
“Totalling” and “totaling” are prime examples of how a single word can reflect the rich diversity of the English language. While the difference may seem minor, it’s a vital detail that can impact the professionalism and readability of your writing. By understanding the rules and applying them consistently, you can navigate these linguistic nuances with confidence.
So, the next time you’re faced with the choice between “totalling” and “totaling,” remember: it’s not just about spelling—it’s about connecting with your audience and honoring the conventions of the language variant you’re using. Whether you’re writing for readers in London or Los Angeles, choosing the right form will ensure your words resonate on both sides of the pond.
