British or Brittish
Which Spelling is Correct? Understanding the correct spelling of "British" and "Brittish". This is an adjective referring to people, things, or characteristics of Great Britain or the United Kingdom.
Brittish
Incorrect spelling - This spelling is incorrect. "Brittish" is a misspelling of the word "British."
"Brittish" is a common misspelling of "British". Always use "British" when referring to the correct word.
British
Correct spelling - The proper way to spell this word.
This is the correct spelling. "British" is the proper English spelling.
Definition of British
"British": This is the correct spelling. "British" is the proper English spelling.
This word is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Synonyms for British
- • UK
- • English
- • Great Britain
- • United Kingdom
- • Britannic
- • Anglo
- • British Isles
- • Albion (poetic)
Usage Examples
"Correct:" She is British
"Correct:" The British accent is distinctive
"Correct:" British culture is rich and diverse
"Incorrect:" She is Brittish
"Incorrect:" The Brittish accent is distinctive
"Incorrect:" Brittish culture is rich and diverse
Notes:
- • "British" is always spelled with single "t" in the middle, not double "tt"
- • The word comes from Old English "Brettisc" meaning of the Britons
- • The pronunciation is /ˈbrɪtɪʃ/ (BRIT-ish)
- • "Brittish" is a common misspelling but is never correct
- • The word is related to "Britain" and "Briton"
- • It's an adjective and should be capitalized when referring to nationality
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do people spell it "Brittish"?
A: This misspelling occurs because people think the word should have double "t" like some other words, but "British" is correctly spelled with single "t."
Q: Is "Brittish" ever acceptable?
A: No, "Brittish" is always incorrect. Always use "British" in all contexts.
Q: What's the difference between "British" and "English"?
A: "British" refers to people from Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), while "English" refers specifically to people from England.
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Think of "British" as having single "t" like "Britain" and "Briton." The word is related to these terms and follows the same spelling pattern.
Summary
British is the correct spelling of this word. The incorrect spelling "Brittish" should never be used. Remember: British has single "t" in the middle (like "Britain" and "Briton"). The word refers to people, things, or characteristics of Great Britain or the United Kingdom.