Digitise vs. Digitize — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 4, 2024
Digitise and digitize refer to the same process of converting information into digital format, with "digitise" being the British spelling and "digitize" the American.
Difference Between Digitise and Digitize
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Digitise is the British English spelling used to describe the conversion of information into a digital format, enabling data to be stored, processed, and transmitted by computers. Whereas, digitize is the American English version of the term, reflecting the same process but differentiated by regional spelling conventions.
The process of digitising involves converting analog information, such as photographs, sounds, or text, into binary code. On the other hand, digitizing, while identical in function, is more commonly encountered in American publications, software, and academic papers, underscoring the geographical preferences in spelling.
Digitise might be taught as part of a curriculum in countries following British English standards, emphasizing the "s" in its spelling. Conversely, in the United States, students learn to spell it as digitize, aligning with American English orthographic rules.
When it comes to technology and digital transformation discussions, both terms are used interchangeably based on the audience's location. However, digitize appears more frequently in global digital platforms and software, largely due to the dominant influence of American English in the tech industry.
Despite the spelling differences, both terms are understood universally among English speakers and are considered correct within their respective dialects. This showcases the flexibility and adaptability of the English language to regional variations.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Variation
British English
American English
Usage
Preferred in UK, Commonwealth nations
Preferred in the US
Context
Academic, official documents in the UK
Academic, official documents in the US
Global Tech Influence
Less common in global tech context
More common in global tech context
Example Publications
British journals and books
American journals and books
Compare with Definitions
Digitise
Convert (data) into digital form.
The archives have been digitised for easier access.
Digitize
The act of making data compatible with computer processing.
Digitizing patient records simplifies retrieval.
Digitise
The process of entering data into a digital device.
Digitising these records will take weeks.
Digitize
To create digital copies of physical objects.
Digitizing the art collection will preserve it online.
Digitise
Transforming manual processes into digital ones.
The museum is digitising its exhibition guides.
Digitize
The transition from analog to digital technology.
Digitizing our processes has increased productivity.
Digitise
To make digital versions of analog media.
We plan to digitise all our old photographs.
Digitize
Convert information into a digital format.
They're digitizing the company's paperwork.
Digitise
Incorporation of digital technologies into everyday tasks.
Digitising the payment system improves efficiency.
Digitize
Integrating digital solutions into traditional systems.
Digitizing the library catalog was a major improvement.
Digitise
Standard spelling of digitize
Digitize
To put (data, for example) into digital form.
Digitise
Put into digital form, as for use in a computer;
He bought a device to digitize the data
Digitize
To represent something (such as an image or sound) as a structured sequence of binary digits.
Digitize
To quantize a continuous or analog value; to convert it into a discrete value.
Digitize
To finger; as, to digitize a pen.
Digitize
To convert (information, a signal, an image) into a form expressible in numbers or in binary notation. The original signal before digitization is usually in analog form.
Digitize
Put into digital form, as for use in a computer;
He bought a device to digitize the data
Common Curiosities
What does digitize mean?
Digitize means the same as digitise but is the preferred spelling in American English.
Why are there two spellings for digitize?
The two spellings reflect the differences between British and American English orthographic conventions.
Can either spelling be used in academic writing?
Yes, but it's advisable to use the spelling that aligns with the style guide or regional standards of the publication.
Is digitising a photograph different from digitizing it?
No, the process is the same; the difference lies only in the spelling.
Do tech companies prefer one spelling over the other?
Tech companies often use "digitize," reflecting the global influence of American English in the tech industry.
Is it important to be consistent with spelling in professional documents?
Yes, consistency in spelling, according to the chosen English dialect, maintains professionalism and clarity in documents.
Will using one spelling over the other affect my document's understanding?
No, both terms are universally understood among English speakers.
What does digitise mean?
Digitise refers to converting information into a digital format, typically in British English.
How has digital technology influenced the use of these terms?
Digital technology's global reach has made "digitize" more common, though "digitise" remains prevalent in British English contexts.
Are digitise and digitize interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable and understood universally, differing only in regional spelling preferences.
Is there a difference in the process of digitisation vs. digitization?
No, the process is identical; only the spelling varies.
Why might someone choose to use "digitise" over "digitize"?
Choice of spelling usually depends on the writer's or publication's regional English standard.
Has the preference for one spelling changed over time?
Yes, with the globalization of English and digital technology, "digitize" has become more prevalent, though "digitise" remains firmly in use in British English territories.
Are there any contexts where one spelling is preferred?
Yes, academic and official documents tend to use the spelling preferred by the country's English dialect.
Can using British English spellings affect search engine optimization (SEO)?
It might, as search algorithms often cater to the predominant language of the user base, potentially making "digitize" more searchable globally.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
