Acknowledgement or Acknowlegement
Which Spelling is Correct?
Confused between "acknowledgement" and "acknowlegement"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
Incorrect: Acknowlegement
"Acknowlegement" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "acknowledgement" with "ledge" not "lege".
Correct: Acknowledgement
"Acknowledgement" is the correct spelling. It means recognition or admission of something.
Definitions
Acknowledgement (noun):
Recognition or admission of the existence or truth of something; an expression of appreciation or thanks.
Examples:
- • She sent an acknowledgement of receipt.
- • The author's acknowledgement thanked her family.
- • His acknowledgement of the problem was the first step.
Acknowlegement (noun):
"Acknowlegement" is a misspelling of "acknowledgement" and is not a valid English word.
Examples:
- • "Acknowlegement" is not used in standard English.
- • Always use acknowledgement when referring to recognition.
Synonyms
Acknowledgement:
- • Recognition
- • Admission
- • Confirmation
- • Acceptance
- • Appreciation
Acknowlegement:
- • (No valid synonyms; not a standard English word)
Notes:
- • Acknowledgement contains "ledge" not "lege".
- • The word comes from "acknowledge" + "-ment" suffix.
- • Used in formal writing, business communications, and academic contexts.
- • Common in book acknowledgements and business correspondence.
- • "Acknowlegement" is never correct in any context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is "acknowlegement" ever correct?
A: No, "acknowlegement" is never correct. The proper spelling is always "acknowledgement."
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Think of it as "acknowledge" + "ment" - the verb form with the noun suffix.
Q: What's the difference between acknowledgement and acknowledgment?
A: Both spellings are correct - "acknowledgement" is British English, "acknowledgment" is American English.
Q: Can acknowledgement be used in formal writing?
A: Yes, "acknowledgement" is very common in formal writing, especially in business and academic contexts.
Q: Why do people often misspell this word?
A: The misspelling "acknowlegement" likely occurs because of confusion about the spelling of "ledge".
Q: What are some common phrases using "acknowledgement"?
A: Examples include: acknowledgement of receipt, book acknowledgements, acknowledgement letter, and public acknowledgement.
Summary
Remember: Acknowledgement is the correct spelling with "ledge" in the middle. It means recognition or admission of something. The misspelling "acknowlegement" is never correct.