When it comes to the words “targetted” and “targeted,” many English language learners and even native speakers find themselves confused. Which one is correct? Is it one “t” or two? The truth is, both spellings can be correct, but it all depends on where you are and which country’s English you are using.
In British English, the correct spelling is “targetted” with two t’s. This double “t” reflects the pronunciation of the word with a clear emphasis on the second syllable. For example, if you are targeting a specific audience for your marketing campaign, you would say that you have “targetted” your advertisements towards them.
On the other hand, in American English, the correct spelling is “targeted” with only one “t.” This spelling follows the principle of simplifying words and reducing unnecessary letters. For instance, if you are focusing your efforts on reaching a specific group, you would say that you have “targeted” that audience with your message.
To further understand this spelling variation, let’s explore some examples from both sides of the pond:
1. British English:
– The company targetted a new market segment with their latest product.
– She carefully targetted her resume towards potential employers in the finance industry.
– The police force has been targetting drug dealers in their recent operations.
2. American English:
– The government targeted low-income families for assistance programs.
– The organization strategically targeted social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
– The marketing campaign successfully targeted millennials and Gen Z with its trendy advertisements.
In addition to these two main variants, there are also other English-speaking countries that may adopt either the British or American spelling. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand often follow the British spelling, while countries like India and Singapore may use a mix of British and American English.
In conclusion, the correct spelling of “targetted” or “targeted” depends on the type of English you are using. British English uses “targetted” with double t’s, while American English opts for “targeted” with a single “t.” It is crucial to adapt your spelling based on the English variant you are using. However, it is worth noting that as English continues to evolve, certain spelling variations may become more widely accepted in different contexts.