Dialling vs. Dialing — What's the Difference?

"Dialling" and "dialing" both refer to the action of making a telephone call by pressing buttons or turning a dial on a phone. The difference in spelling reflects the variety of English being used: "dialling" follows British English conventions, where verbs ending in a vowel plus "l" double the "l" when adding endings like "-ing" or "-ed." American English, however, typically does not double the "l" in such instances, hence "dialing."

In the context of technology beyond telephones, both terms also apply to selecting or setting options on various devices, from radios to computer interfaces, where one might "dial in" settings. Despite the differences in spelling, the meaning and use in context are the same, emphasizing the action of selecting or initiating communication or settings.

The transition from rotary dials to buttons and then to touchscreens and voice commands in telephones and devices has broadened the metaphorical use of "dialling/dialing." Regardless of the spelling, it now encompasses any action of setting up or initiating a connection or configuration, even in digital interfaces where no physical dial is present.

When choosing between "dialling" and "dialing," the key consideration is the intended audience's familiarity with British or American English conventions. This choice can affect readability and the perceived correctness of the text, depending on the audience's expectations.

In educational or professional writing, adherence to the appropriate variant of English is important for consistency and clarity. Writers and editors should ensure that they use the spelling that aligns with the other language conventions in their text, whether it be American or British English.