Characterised vs. Characterized — What's the Difference?

The primary difference between "characterised" and "characterized" lies in their usage in different English dialects. "Characterised" is the preferred spelling in British English, reflecting the linguistic preferences in the UK and many other countries that follow British English conventions. On the other hand, "characterized" is the standard spelling in American English, used in the United States and countries that lean towards American English standards.

Despite the spelling differences, both words have the same meaning and function in a sentence. They are used to describe the distinctive qualities or features of a person, group, event, or object. This can include physical characteristics, personality traits, or defining attributes of a concept or phenomenon.

The choice between "characterised" and "characterized" depends on the intended audience or the preferred style guide. Writers and speakers tend to choose the spelling that aligns with the norms of the English variant they are using. For instance, academic papers, books, and other publications will adhere to the spelling conventions of the English dialect they target.

In addition to "characterised" and "characterized," this distinction between British and American English spelling extends to other words ending in "-ise" (British) and "-ize" (American). Examples include "realise/realize," "organise/organize," and "recognise/recognize." However, it's worth noting that some British publications and dictionaries accept "-ize" endings as well, making the usage more flexible in British English than the reverse in American English.

In digital communication and global contexts, the prevalence of American English in software, websites, and international media can influence spelling preferences. However, both forms are considered correct within their respective dialects, and understanding the audience's expectations is key to choosing the appropriate spelling.