Ever noticed how some people spell “neighbor” with a “u” and others don’t? It can be a bit confusing, especially when you’re not sure which version to use.
You might worry about using the “wrong” spelling, whether it’s for an email, an essay, or just a text message. After all, it feels like there should be a clear rule, but the difference can be tricky depending on where you’re from.
Don’t worry—this article will clear it all up! I, Md. Hamim Khan, will explain the difference between “neighbor” and “neighbour” and help you know exactly when to use each one, so you can feel confident in your writing no matter where you are.
Let’s dive in.
Overview of the Words: Neighbor & Neighbour
The term “neighbor” (or “neighbour” in British English) traces back to Old English, specifically the word neahgebur, which means “near dweller,” or someone living near you. Over centuries, English evolved, and the word was adapted with slightly different spellings depending on the region.
- “Neighbor” became the standard in American English.
- “Neighbour” remained in use in British English.
This variation in spelling isn’t limited to just these two words. Many other words, such as “color” vs. “colour” and “honor” vs. “honour,” follow the same pattern. The simplified American spellings tend to drop the “u,” while British English keeps it.
The American Vs British English Difference: Neighbor Vs Neighbour
The main reason for the difference in spelling comes from the evolution of the English language. The American English spelling was influenced by Noah Webster, the American lexicographer who wanted to simplify the spelling of many English words. In his 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language, Webster advocated for dropping extraneous letters, such as the “u” in words like “colour” and “honour,” which resulted in the American versions of these words.
Key points of difference
- American English: “Neighbor”
- British English: “Neighbour”
- Canadian English: Both “neighbor” and “neighbour” are accepted, but the preference is often for “neighbour” in formal writing.
- Australian and South African English: “Neighbour” is the norm.
When to Use “Neighbor”
“Neighbor” is used almost exclusively in American English. It’s the standard spelling across all forms of writing, from casual communication to official documents. If you’re writing for an American audience, it’s always best to use “neighbor.”
Example of “Neighbor” in American English
- “Our neighbor is hosting a barbecue this weekend.”
- “I’ve been friends with my neighbor for years.”
In American English, “neighbor” is used in many contexts, from community-based activities to discussions about friendly relations with those who live nearby.
When to Use “Neighbour”
“Neighbour” is the preferred spelling in British English. This version is widely used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and many other Commonwealth countries. If you’re writing for a British audience, whether it’s a casual blog post or an academic paper, “neighbour” is the word to use.
Example of “Neighbour” in British English
- “Our neighbour’s cat loves to visit our garden.”
- “She’s very close to her neighbour.”
Using “neighbour” is part of maintaining formal British spelling conventions in writing, particularly in official documents, literature, and academic contexts.
Language Trends and Statistics
Recent data show that American English is the dominant form of English globally, largely due to the influence of the internet, movies, and global media. According to the Oxford English Corpus, which tracks English usage across various media, approximately 60% of English-language content online is written in American English. This includes social media posts, websites, blogs, and news articles. As a result, many English learners around the world are exposed to American English spelling more often than British English.
A survey from the British Council conducted in 2020 revealed that 75% of people in non-English speaking countries (like China, Brazil, and Japan) prefer to use American English when communicating online, influenced by the prevalence of U.S.-based websites and platforms. However, when it comes to formal or academic writing, British English rules still prevail, especially in the UK and Commonwealth nations.
Variations Across the Globe
In addition to the U.S. and the UK, other English-speaking regions have their own habits when it comes to spelling.
- Canada: Canadian English typically follows British English conventions, so “neighbour” is preferred in formal writing, though “neighbor” is common in everyday use.
- Australia: Australians follow British English, so “neighbour” is the correct spelling in formal and informal settings.
- South Africa: Like Australia, South Africa uses “neighbour” in both spoken and written communication.
Even in countries that primarily use British English, the growing influence of American media has made “neighbor” more common in informal contexts like texting, online chatting, and social media.
How to Handle the Difference in Writing
When you’re deciding whether to use “neighbor” or “neighbour,” think about your audience. If you’re writing for a global audience, it might be helpful to choose one and stick with it for consistency. If you’re targeting a specific region (like the U.S. or the UK), use the spelling that aligns with that region’s rules.
Hamim’s pro tips for consistency
- If you’re writing a paper, article, or content for a publication, check the style guide to see if it prefers British or American English.
- If you’re unsure about which version to use, online tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor can help, but they often default to American English spelling.
- Be aware of the context: while “neighbor” may be acceptable in casual online writing for a British audience, formal documents should stick to “neighbour.”
Conclusion
Finally, whether you choose to write “neighbor” or “neighbour” depends on your audience and the version of English you’re using. American English simplifies the spelling to “neighbor,” while British English keeps the “u” in “neighbour.”
Both words mean the same thing and are understood worldwide, but using the correct spelling based on your audience can make your writing more polished and appropriate.
In formal settings, particularly in countries that follow British English, “neighbour” is preferred, but for informal settings or U.S.-based content, “neighbor” is the go-to spelling. With global communication growing, the key is to be consistent and choose the version that best fits your readers.
