Judgment or judgement? This is a common question that many English language learners and even native speakers often find themselves grappling with. The answer lies in understanding the subtle differences in spelling conventions between American English and British English.
In American English, the correct spelling is “judgment”, while in British English, the preferred form is “judgement”. Although both spellings are widely used and accepted, it is important to note that when taking the IELTS exam, you should stick to the spelling conventions of the country in which you are taking the test.
Now, let’s learn the background and reasons behind these different spellings. The variation can be attributed to the historical evolution of the English language. British English tends to preserve the original spelling of words, whereas American English often simplifies and eliminates unnecessary letters.
The word “judgment” or “judgement” is derived from the Latin word “judicium”. In the 16th century, when the English language was going through a period of standardization, the “e” was dropped from many words in British English. However, the influence of French on the English language during that time led to the retention of the “e” in certain words such as “judgement”. This is why the spelling “judgement” is favored in British English.
Examples of usage in American English include:
1. The judge passed a fair judgment in the trial.
2. Don’t let personal biases cloud your judgment.
3. She exercised good judgment in selecting her team members.
On the other hand, examples of usage in British English include:
1. The jury’s judgement was unanimous.
2. His judgement in choosing a career path was questionable.
3. I trust her judgement when it comes to financial matters.
It is important to note that while “judgment” is the accepted spelling in American English, “judgement” is also widely used. In fact, some American style guides also accept and acknowledge the validity of the British spelling. The Oxford English Dictionary, for instance, lists both forms as correct but acknowledges “judgment” as the more common spelling.
In conclusion, the spelling of “judgment” or “judgement” depends on regional variations of the English language. For the IELTS exam, it is essential to adhere to the spelling conventions of the country in which you are taking the test. To avoid any confusion, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the standard spellings of words in either American or British English, depending on your test location.
So, whether you opt for “judgment” or “judgement”, remember that both spellings are widely recognized and accepted. The key is to be consistent in your usage and to be aware of the spelling conventions of the English language in the country where the exam is administered. In the end, what really matters is your ability to effectively communicate your ideas and thoughts, regardless of small spelling differences.