Totalling or Totaling: Which Spelling to Use?

When it comes to spelling variations in the English language, totalling and totaling can be a source of confusion. These two forms of the same verb may look nearly identical, but their usage depends on regional differences, specifically between British and American English.

This article delves into the distinctions, rules, and usage of “totalling” and “totaling,” offering clarity on how to choose the correct spelling based on context.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of when to use each version, why the differences exist, and some handy tips to avoid common spelling mistakes. Let’s dive in.

What Do “Totalling” and “Totaling” Mean?

At its core, the verb “total” means to sum up or calculate the total of something. For instance:

• “She spent the afternoon totaling the expenses for the project.”
• “The final amount, totalling $5,000, was approved.”

Both totalling and totaling are the present participle forms of the verb “total.” The only difference lies in the spelling, which is influenced by regional spelling differences.

In essence, “totalling” is used in British English, while “totaling” is preferred in American English. Both forms are grammatically correct, but knowing which version to use will depend on your target audience and the spelling rules followed in the region.

This distinction extends beyond just this one word and reflects broader spelling rules that separate American and British versions of English. For example, in British English, verbs ending in a vowel followed by a consonant often double the consonant before adding “-ing.” This explains why “totalling” has a double “l.”

Conversely, in American English, the consonant is typically not doubled unless the stress is on the last syllable of the root word. Since “total” has the stress on the first syllable, it becomes “totaling” in American English.

Other examples of this American vs. British spelling pattern include:

Word	British English	American English
Travelling	Travelling	Traveling
Modelling	Modelling	Modeling
Cancelled	Cancelled	Canceled

Spelling Rules

In general, when dealing with verbs that end in a vowel + consonant, the rules for whether to double the final consonant depend on:

1. The syllable stress (where the emphasis is placed in the word).
2. The form of English you’re using (British or American).

The correct spelling of totaling or totalling hinges on which form of English is used, but both forms mean the same thing: adding up to a total.

Why Is There Confusion Between “Totalling” and “Totaling”?

The confusion between these two words stems largely from the influence of media, globalization, and exposure to different forms of English. Language variations in English are influenced by historical factors, with American English favoring more simplified spelling patterns.

• Globalization: Today’s interconnected world exposes us to both British and American English through media, literature, and the Internet. As a result, many people, even native speakers, may encounter both spellings regularly, leading to confusion.
• Spellcheck and Auto-correct: Many word processing tools default to American English spellings. As a result, writers who use British English may find their computers correcting “totalling” to “totaling” or vice versa.

It’s important to understand the difference, as using the wrong form in a professional setting can undermine your credibility.

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Regional Preferences: Where and When to Use “Totalling” or “Totaling”

Understanding where and when to use these variations can be crucial, especially if you’re writing for an international audience. Here’s a breakdown of when to use each:

British English Preference: “Totalling”

In the UK, Australia, and other countries that follow British English, the correct form is “totalling.” This version is also used in most Commonwealth countries.

Example:

• “The expenses, totalling £10,000, were approved by the board.”

American English Preference: “Totaling”

In the United States and countries that follow American English, “totaling” is the preferred spelling.

Example:

• “The damages were estimated at totaling $5,000.”

International Context

If you’re writing for an international audience, it’s essential to pick a consistent spelling based on where the majority of your readers are located. For business and academic writing, choosing the right form shows attention to detail and respect for local norms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Writers often fall into the trap of mixing British and American spellings, which can lead to inconsistency. Here are a few common spelling mistakes to avoid:

1. Inconsistent spelling: Using “totalling” in one paragraph and “totaling” in another.
2. Ignoring audience location: Writing for an American audience but using British spellings, or vice versa.
3. Over-reliance on auto-correct: Allowing software to dictate your spelling without checking for regional preferences.

To maintain professionalism and clarity, ensure that your spelling matches the regional spelling differences of your audience. Consistency is key, especially in formal writing.

Synonyms for “Totalling” or “Totaling”

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While it’s important to use the correct form of “totalling” or “totaling,” you can also vary your vocabulary to keep your writing fresh. Here are a few synonyms that can replace “totalling” or “totaling” in sentences:

• Summing up: “She spent hours summing up the costs for the project.”
• Adding up: “The accountant was responsible for adding up all the expenses.”
• Calculating: “The damages were being calculated as the reports came in.”
• Tallying: “He is tallying the votes from each precinct.”

Using these alternatives can help avoid repetition and add variety to your writing.

Example Sentences Using “Totalling” and “Totaling”

To further clarify the usage of each spelling, let’s look at some examples in context.

Totalling (British English)

• “The repair costs, totalling £3,000, were covered by the insurance.”
• “He spent all afternoon totalling the receipts for the fundraiser.”

Totaling (American English)

• “The final bill, totaling $4,200, was sent to the client.”
• “Her monthly expenses were totaling more than her income.”

Quick Reference Table: British vs. American Spelling

For easy reference, here’s a table of spelling variations between British and American English, focusing on words that follow the same pattern as “totalling” and “totaling”:

British English	American English	Example Sentence (British)	Example Sentence (American)
Totalling	Totaling	“The costs, totalling £5,000, were settled.”	“The costs, totaling $5,000, were settled.”
Travelling	Traveling	“He enjoys travelling around Europe.”	“He enjoys traveling around the US.”
Modelling	Modeling	“She has a career in modelling.”	“She has a career in modeling.”
Cancelled	Canceled	“The event was cancelled due to rain.”	“The event was canceled due to rain.”

Conclusion: The Key Takeaway

Understanding the grammar differences between British and American English is essential for clear communication. While both totalling and totaling are correct, the form you choose should reflect the regional spelling rules of your audience. By following the correct spelling of totaling or totalling, you’ll ensure that your writing remains professional and polished.

To summarize:

• Totalling is used in British English.
• Totaling is used in American English.
• Always consider your audience’s location when choosing between the two forms.
• Be consistent in your spelling throughout your writing.
• Use tools like spell check with caution, as they may default to one form or the other.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll avoid common mistakes and ensure that your writing is clear, consistent, and grammatically correct.

Sources

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary
• Oxford English Dictionary
• Grammarly