Intitled vs. Entitled — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 19, 2023
"Intitled" is an archaic form meaning "to give a title to," rarely used today. "Entitled" means "to give a right or claim to" or "to give a title to." The primary difference is modern usage: "Entitled" is common, while "Intitled" is outdated.
Difference Between Intitled and Entitled
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Intitled" is a word that once existed in English and was used to mean "to give a title to" or "to designate." However, over time, its usage has become archaic and is seldom seen in contemporary English. On the other hand, "Entitled" is a word that has not only maintained its relevancy but is also frequently used in modern times.
Both "Intitled" and "Entitled" can denote the act of assigning a title to something, such as a book or artwork. But while "Entitled" has retained this meaning and also accumulated others, "Intitled" remains frozen in its old usage and is rarely, if ever, seen today.
The evolution of language often leads to the phasing out of certain words, and "Intitled" is an example of this. Meanwhile, "Entitled" has grown in usage and meaning, often referring to someone who believes they have a special right or privilege, even if undeserved.
Today, using "Intitled" in contemporary writing would likely be seen as an error or archaism. "Entitled," however, is versatile and can be found in a variety of contexts, ranging from the title of a piece of work to describing an individual's demeanor or attitude.
Comparison Chart
Modern Usage
Archaic, rarely used
Commonly used
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Primary Meaning
To give a title to
To give a title or right to
Secondary Meaning
None
Having a right/privilege
Example Sentence
"He intitled his book..."
"She felt entitled to..."
Associated Connotation
Old-fashioned
Contemporary, versatile
Compare with Definitions
Intitled
Outdated method of specifying a title.
The chapter was intitled Sunset Dreams.
Entitled
To give a name or title to something.
The book was entitled Mysteries of the Deep.
Intitled
An old term for designating a title.
His manuscript was intitled Adventures Abroad.
Entitled
Believing oneself to have certain rights without merit.
She acted entitled, expecting special treatment.
Intitled
Historic way of naming.
The treaty was intitled Pact of Peace.
Entitled
Designated a particular title.
The painting was entitled Starry Night.
Intitled
Archaic version of "to title."
The play was intitled The Lost Prince.
Entitled
Having a rightful claim to something.
He felt entitled to a promotion after years of hard work.
Intitled
Former word for titling a creation.
The song was intitled Melodies of the Heart.
Entitled
Believing oneself to be inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment
His pompous, entitled attitude
Kids who feel so entitled and think the world will revolve around them
Intitled
Simple past tense and past participle of intitle
Entitled
To give a name or title to.
Entitled
To furnish with a right or claim to something
The coupon entitles you to a $5 discount. Everyone is entitled to the equal protection of the laws.
Entitled
Simple past tense and past participle of entitle
Entitled
(literally) Having a title.
Her book is entitled 'My Autobiography'.
Entitled
Having a legal or moral right or claim to something.
As a natural-born citizen I am entitled to run for president.
If you were injured at work you may be entitled to compensation.
He feels entitled to other people's respect.
Entitled
(figuratively) Convinced of one's own righteousness (self-righteousness) or the justifiability of one's actions or status, especially wrongly so; demanding and pretentious.
Entitled
Qualified for by right according to law;
We are all entitled to equal protection under the law
Entitled
Given a title or identifying name;
The book entitled `A Tale of Two Cities'
Entitled
Having the rights to something.
As a citizen, she's entitled to vote.
Common Curiosities
Why don't we see "Intitled" used often?
Language evolves, and "Intitled" has become outdated.
Should I avoid using "Intitled" in my writing?
In modern contexts, "Entitled" is preferred to avoid confusion.
Do "Intitled" and "Entitled" have the same meaning?
Historically, both meant "to give a title," but now "Entitled" has broader meanings.
Can I use "Intitled" for historical or period pieces?
Yes, if it fits the time period or style of the piece.
Is "Intitled" a mistake in modern English?
"Intitled" is an archaic form. Today, "Entitled" is the preferred term.
Why is "Entitled" more versatile than "Intitled"?
Over time, "Entitled" evolved in meaning and usage, while "Intitled" became archaic.
Can "Entitled" refer to someone's attitude?
Yes, it can describe someone who feels they have rights/privileges without merit.
Is "Intitled" completely wrong?
It's not wrong, but it's archaic and might be seen as an error in modern contexts.
Is "Entitled" only about giving titles?
No, it also relates to rights, claims, or attitudes of privilege.
Can "Entitled" describe a person's demeanor?
Yes, especially if someone acts as though they have undeserved rights/privileges.
Did classic authors use "Intitled"?
Yes, it appeared in older literature but is rare today.
How did "Entitled" gain its modern connotations?
Language evolves, and "Entitled" adapted to describe certain attitudes and rights.
How do I know if someone's using "Entitled" as a title or attitude?
Context will provide clarity on the intended meaning.
Would using "Intitled" make my writing seem old-fashioned?
Likely, as "Intitled" is an archaic form seldom used today.
Is there a noun form of "Entitled"?
Yes, "entitlement" refers to a right or claim.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
