Prioritised vs. Prioritized: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on November 13, 2023
Prioritised and prioritized are different spellings of the same word, with "prioritised" used in British English and "prioritized" in American English, both meaning to arrange in order of importance.
Key Differences
Prioritised is the British English spelling used to describe making something a priority or arranging things in order of importance. Conversely, prioritized is the American English spelling for the same concept, used in contexts like business or personal planning.
The word prioritised is often seen in British English texts, reflecting the linguistic preferences of that region. Prioritized, on the other hand, is the preferred form in American English, including in official documents and academic writing.
In terms of pronunciation, prioritised and prioritized are spoken similarly, despite the spelling differences. The choice between prioritised and prioritized does not alter the meaning of the word; it simply aligns with regional spelling conventions.
When using prioritised in writing, it reflects adherence to British English standards, like in the Oxford English Dictionary. In contrast, prioritized aligns with American English standards, as seen in publications like the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.
In global communications, the use of prioritised or prioritized can indicate the writer's linguistic background, with prioritised suggesting British influences and prioritized indicating American influences.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
British English version
American English version
Usage
Common in UK and Commonwealth countries
Common in the United States
Pronunciation
Similar to prioritized
Similar to prioritised
Alignment
Adheres to British English standards
Adheres to American English standards
Indication
Suggests a British linguistic background
Suggests an American linguistic background
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Prioritised and Prioritized Definitions
Prioritised
Made a priority.
The manager prioritised efficiency over speed.
Prioritized
Made a priority.
The team prioritized completing the project on time.
Prioritised
Selected as most important.
In her plan, education was prioritised.
Prioritized
Selected as most important.
The CEO prioritized innovation in the company strategy.
Prioritised
Given precedence.
Safety issues were prioritised during the meeting.
Prioritized
Arranged by importance.
Customer satisfaction is prioritized in our policy.
Prioritised
Arranged by importance.
Healthcare was prioritised in the budget.
Prioritized
Given precedence.
In our discussion, security concerns were prioritized.
Prioritised
Elevated in urgency.
The project's deadline was prioritised.
Prioritized
Elevated in urgency.
Responding to customer feedback was prioritized.
Prioritised
Simple past tense and past participle of prioritise
Prioritized
To arrange or deal with in order of importance.
Prioritized
To treat or consider as of greater importance than other matters
Economic policies that prioritize job creation.
Prioritized
To put things in order of importance.
Prioritized
Simple past tense and past participle of prioritize
Prioritized
With priority, having priority
FAQs
Is prioritised used in American English?
No, "prioritized" is the American English spelling.
Can prioritised and prioritized be used interchangeably?
Yes, but it depends on the regional language preference.
Does prioritised imply a different meaning in British English?
No, it has the same meaning as prioritized.
Is there a difference in pronunciation between the two?
No, they are pronounced similarly.
Are prioritised and prioritized the same?
Yes, they have the same meaning but different spellings.
Is there a difference in usage in different industries?
No, the usage is consistent across industries.
Do dictionaries list both spellings?
Yes, most dictionaries list both, specifying regional usage.
Should I use prioritised in American publications?
In American English, it's preferable to use prioritized.
In digital communication, which spelling is preferable?
It depends on the audience's regional language preference.
Are there any synonyms that replace both words?
Synonyms like "emphasized" or "highlighted" can replace both.
Is prioritized accepted in British English?
British English predominantly uses prioritised.
Is prioritised more formal than prioritized?
No, the formality is the same; only the spelling differs.
Can the spelling affect search engine results?
Yes, different spellings may yield slightly different results.
Does the choice of spelling affect the meaning?
No, the meaning remains the same regardless of spelling.
Which spelling is used in international communications?
It depends on the linguistic background of the communicator.
Do language style guides recommend a specific spelling?
Style guides recommend spelling based on regional English standards.
Is one spelling more common in global business?
"Prioritized" is often more common in global business settings.
Can using the wrong spelling impact professional perception?
It might, especially if regional language standards are expected.
Can either spelling be used in academic writing?
Yes, but it should align with the region's language standards.
Is it important to be consistent with spelling in a document?
Yes, consistency in spelling within a document is important.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
