Humour Or Humor – British vs. American English

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 “humour” and “humour” with respective examples.

“Humour” or “Humor”

Both variations, “humour” and “humour,” act as nouns, referring to an array of aspects. In general, the word “humour” or “humour” 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/humour” refers to bodily fluids such as blood. As a transitive verb “to humour/humour,” it describes the action of entertaining someone’s wishes by conforming to their expectations. In a broader sense, it can nasty to conform oneself to something. The spelling may vary depending on whether you use British English or American English. Additionally, “humour/humour me” exists as an idiomatic saying and asks for indulgence or cooperation in a lighthearted manner.

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 spelt 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 “humour” as a noun

The following examples highlight the different spellings of the noun “humour/humour” in British English and American English.

• British English: “Humour”
• American English: “Humor”

“Humour” or “humour” in the “-ed” form

The “-ed” form inflection of the verb “to humour/humour” implies the past tense or past participle of the verb. While in American English, the correct form is “humoured,” in British English, the correct form is “humoured.”

• British English: “Humoured”
• American English: “Humored”

“Humour” or “humour” in the “-ing” form

The “-ing” form inflection of the verb “to humour/humour” implies the present participle or a gerund. While in American English, the correct form is “humouring,” in British English, the correct form is “humouring.”

• British English: “Humouring”
• American English: “Humoring”

Exceptions

“Humour” or “humour” can also act as an adjective. In both variants, it is spelt as “humorous.”