The global distribution of the English language resulted in the development of different spellings and pronunciations of words. When writing an academic paper, it’s essential to pay attention to linguistic consistency to maintain a cohesive flow and academic integrity. Two of the most popular variations of English are British English vs. American English. This article aims to show the distinction between “humor” and “humor” with respective examples.
“Humour” or “Humor”
Both variations, “humour” and “humor,” act as nouns, referring to an array of aspects. In general, the word “humour” or “humor” refers to the ludicrous, funny, or absurd quality of something or someone. It also describes the ability to be playful in a laughable way. A rarer meaning is the temporary state of mind that is influenced by external circumstances.
Furthermore, it can be used as a synonym for the concept of temperament. In a medical sense, “humour/humor” refers to bodily fluids such as blood. As a transitive verb “to humour/humor,” it describes the action of entertaining someone’s wishes by conforming to their expectations. In a broader sense, it can mean to conform oneself to something. The spelling may vary depending on whether you use British English or American English. Additionally, “humour/humor me” exists as an idiomatic saying and asks for indulgence or cooperation in a lighthearted manner.
British English
humour
American English
humor
Both variations are considered correct. However, it depends on whether you decide to write in British English or American English. In British English, “humour” has a silent “u,” following the common British spelling convention of the suffix “-our,” while in American English, there is a sound-to-speech congruity, and it is spelled with only an “o.” Essentially, it is integral to stick to one version of English to keep academic integrity and credibility throughout your academic work.
Examples of using “humour” and “humor” as a noun
The following examples highlight the different spellings of the noun “humour/humor” in British English and American English.
- British English: “Humour”
- American English: “Humor”
- The comedian is known for his impeccable humour.
- The humour of the situation was of unique quality.
- Despite the setbacks, she always kept her positive humour.
- The comedian is known for his impeccable humor.
- The humor of the situation was of unique quality.
- Despite the setbacks, she always kept her positive humor.
“Humour” or “humor” in the “-ed” form
The “-ed” form inflection of the verb “to humour/humor” implies the past tense or past participle of the verb. While in American English, the correct form is “humored,” in British English, the correct form is “humoured.”
- British English: “Humoured”
- American English: “Humored”
- The comedian humoured about his bad habits.
- The father humoured the children’s faults.
- Mr. Apple humoured his boss’s request.
- The comedian humored about his bad habits.
- The father humored the children’s faults.
- Mr. Apple humored his boss’s request.
“Humour” or “humor” in the “-ing” form
The “-ing” form inflection of the verb “to humour/humor” implies the present participle or a gerund. While in American English, the correct form is “humoring,” in British English, the correct form is “humouring.”
- British English: “Humouring”
- American English: “Humoring”
- Her efforts were so humouring to me.
- He loves humouring her parents every time.
- A humouring ability is helpful for aspiring teachers.
- Her efforts were so humoring to me.
- He loves humoring her parents every time.
- A humoring ability is helpful for aspiring teachers.
Exceptions
“Humour” or “humor” can also act as an adjective. In both variants, it is spelled as “humorous.”
- Mrs. Plum is a very humorous teacher.
- Her humorous ways are appreciated.
- The author had a humorous approach.
FAQs
The word “humorous” means funny or having a comical sense and is spelled as “humorous.” While “humour” is the correct spelling in British English, the adjective is spelled the same way in British and American English.
Example: “John is a very humorous person.”
When someone uses the idiom “humor me” they usually ask for tolerance and acceptance of what they are saying. They are asking you to listen and understand.
Example: “Can you please humor me and pay attention to my idea?”
Possible synonyms for the word “humorous” are adjectives such as “comical,” “entertaining,” and “funny.”
Examples
- Anna loved the humorous ways of her boyfriend.
- Anna loved the comical ways of her boyfriend.
- Anna loved the entertaining ways of her boyfriend.
- Anna loved the funny ways of her boyfriend.
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