When you see “traveler” or “traveller” in writing, it’s easy to wonder which one is correct. The difference is rooted in the distinction between American English and British English.
Whether you’re a traveler planning your next adventure or a writer looking to improve your spelling, understanding these differences is key to sounding professional and accurate.
Traveler or Traveller: Which Spelling is Right?
The main difference between “traveler” and “traveller” comes from grammar rules in different geopolitical regions. American English tends to favor simplified spelling, and Noah Webster, a key figure in American spelling reform, is one reason for this.
He created a new set of rules for spelling history in the United States, simplifying many words. The simplified spelling of “traveler” in American English dropped an “l”, following a trend of removing double consonants to make words easier to spell.
In the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, “traveller” with double “l” is the preferred spelling. British spelling often retains older forms of words, which have roots in Old French and other historical influences.
This has resulted in “traveller” becoming the standard form in places like the British Isles, Canada, and Australia.
Understanding the Difference: Traveler vs Traveller
The spelling of “traveler” and “traveller” is one of many grammar variations between American English and British English. While both words mean the same thing, the key difference is the spelling based on region.
Traveler is commonly used in the United States and is part of the simplified spelling system that aims to make writing less complex. On the other hand, traveller sticks to the more traditional form used in UK English.
While it might seem like a small difference, it can affect your writing consistency. If you’re writing for an American audience, using “traveler” is the best choice, as it aligns with the American spelling conventions.
If you’re targeting readers in the United Kingdom or other British English speaking areas, “traveller” is the correct choice. So, knowing where your audience is from helps guide your spelling choices.
British English: Traveller (Two L’s)
In British English, “traveller” is the correct spelling. This form follows the older conventions of traditional English and keeps the double “l” intact. The reason for this comes from the influence of Old French, where many words were spelled with double consonants.
Over time, British spelling has kept these historical elements intact, while American English has simplified many of these words.
For example, in UK English, traveller is used in both written and spoken language, and it aligns with other similar words, such as “cancelled” and “labelled”. This consistency in spelling reflects the language evolution in the British Isles and helps maintain the integrity of traditional English.
If you’re writing for an audience in the United Kingdom or any other British English region, using “traveller” will align with local writing norms.
American English: Traveler (One L)
In contrast, American English prefers “traveler” with a single “l”. This simpler spelling follows the trend started by Noah Webster in the 19th century, who believed that the English language should be more streamlined.
By removing unnecessary letters, Webster made English spelling more phonetic and easier for people to learn and use. For example, in American English, words like “flavor” and “honor” also drop extra letters that are present in British English.
In American spelling, “traveler” is the standard form and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. Whether you’re writing a travel blog or an official report, using “traveler” will follow the accepted American spelling conventions.
When communicating in the United States or for an American audience, stick to this spelling to maintain writing consistency.
Why Does the Spelling Change?
The difference in spelling between traveler and traveller dates back to historical shifts in language evolution. The roots of this change can be traced back to Noah Webster, who was an important figure in shaping American English.
He wanted to make the language more logical by simplifying spelling. As part of his reforms, Webster removed many silent letters and double consonants, including the “l” in traveller.
These changes were part of American English becoming distinct from British English. Over time, spelling differences became more pronounced, reflecting the cultural and linguistic separation between the two.
Today, both spellings are considered correct, but the choice depends on where you are writing. Whether you’re in America or the United Kingdom, understanding these differences is essential for clear communication.
Is One Spelling ‘More Correct’ Than the Other?
Neither “traveler” nor “traveller” is more correct than the other. The difference simply reflects regional spelling preferences. In American English, “traveler” is the correct spelling, while in British English, “traveller” is the preferred form.
Neither is wrong, but choosing the right one depends on your audience. The most important thing is to maintain writing consistency throughout your work.
If you’re writing for an international audience, it’s essential to decide which version of English you’re using—American English or British English—and stick with that spelling consistently. This helps avoid confusion and ensures your writing aligns with the language preferences of your readers.
Where and How to Use ‘Traveler’ and ‘Traveller’
Choosing whether to use traveler or traveller depends on the audience you’re writing for. If your readers are in the United States, it’s best to use “traveler” as it follows American spelling conventions.
On the other hand, if you’re writing for an audience in the United Kingdom, “traveller” is the correct spelling, as it follows British English rules.
When writing for a global audience, such as in an international blog or a publication that caters to both American and British readers, you need to decide which spelling to use. You can either choose one or use both consistently across different sections or contexts, but the key is to ensure that your choice aligns with your audience’s expectations.
Here’s a table containing 30 examples of words with different spelling variations in American English and British English.
The table shows the American spelling on the left and the British spelling on the right.
| American English | British English |
| Traveler | Traveller |
| Color | Colour |
| Honor | Honour |
| Organize | Organise |
| Defense | Defence |
| Analyze | Analyse |
| Program | Programme |
| Catalog | Catalogue |
| Center | Centre |
| Theater | Theatre |
| License | Licence |
| Check | Cheque |
| Traveler’s favorite | Traveller’s favourite |
| Favorite | Favourite |
| Jewelry | Jewellery |
| Traveling | Travelling |
| Tire | Tyre |
| Behavior | Behaviour |
| Theater | Theatre |
| Aging | Ageing |
| Canceled | Cancelled |
| Labor | Labour |
| Defense | Defence |
| Realize | Realise |
| Jewelry | Jewellery |
| Sulfur | Sulphur |
| Center | Centre |
| Program | Programme |
| Analyzing | Analysing |
| Plow | Plough |
| Catalog | Catalogue |
Key Differences Between ‘Traveler’ and ‘Traveller’
Understanding the key differences between traveler and traveller can help you decide which one to use. While both words have the same meaning, the spelling is influenced by where you are writing.
Traveler is the simplified version in American English, while traveller follows traditional British spelling. The difference is rooted in the grammar rules of each region and the desire for either simplification or preservation of linguistic heritage.
In professional writing, it’s essential to be aware of these differences, especially if you’re dealing with formal writing or academic texts. Maintaining writing consistency is crucial for clarity and to meet the expectations of your readers.
Conclusion
In the debate of traveler vs traveller, both spellings are correct, but the choice depends on the region. American English prefers the simpler “traveler”, while British English sticks with “traveller”.
Understanding this spelling difference helps ensure that your writing aligns with the expectations of your audience. Whether you’re traveling the world or writing a blog, knowing the proper spelling for your audience is essential.
So, remember to always check whether you’re writing for an American or British audience and adjust your spelling accordingly. Keeping these spelling variations in mind will not only make your writing more accurate but also more professional and relatable to your readers.
FAQs
1. Is “traveller” incorrect in American English?
No, “traveller” is the British spelling, while “traveler” is preferred in American English.
2. Can I use “traveler” and “traveller” in the same sentence?
It’s best to stick to one spelling for consistency based on your audience’s region.
3. Why does American English use “traveler” instead of “traveller”?
American English simplifies spelling, a trend influenced by Noah Webster‘s reforms.
Taila Lucy, an expert content writer at Grammar Grains, brings 4 years of experience crafting engaging pieces on grammar. Her work delves into synonyms, antonyms, slang, puns, and poetry, helping readers master English with creativity and flair.
