The difference between cancelation and cancellation has puzzled many. While both spellings are commonly used, there’s a significant distinction based on geographical and linguistic factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore why there is confusion, clarify the meanings, and provide tips on how to choose the right spelling.
Key Takeaways
Both cancelation and cancellation are correct, but cancellation with two “l’s” is preferred, especially in British English. In American English, the simplified cancelation with one “l” exists but is far less common. To maintain clarity and consistency in your writing, it’s best to use cancellation in most cases. This spelling follows the general pattern of American and British English differences, where American English often favors simplified spellings, while British English retains more traditional forms.
Why is There Confusion Between Cancelation and Cancellation?
Many people encounter both cancelation and cancellation in various writings, but which is correct? The confusion primarily arises from the differences between American and British English spellings. While both forms exist, their usage varies by region.
In American English, cancelation is the simplified version with one “l,” whereas in British English, cancellation is preferred with two “l’s.” This difference in spelling conventions has led to uncertainty among English users, especially in professional and academic writing.
While both spellings are technically correct, the form you use should depend on your audience and the specific English variant you follow.
What Do “Cancelation” and “Cancellation” Mean?
Both cancelation and cancellation have the same meaning. They refer to the act of calling off, ending, or invalidating something, such as an event, service, or agreement.
For example:
- The cancelation of the meeting was announced via email.
- The cancellation of the subscription was effective immediately.
Both words come from the root verb cancel, meaning to revoke or nullify something. Despite the spelling difference, the core definition remains identical.
Cancelation vs Cancellation: Which Spelling Should You Use?
American English: Cancelation
In American English, cancelation is used, though cancellation with two “l’s” is also seen occasionally. However, the trend in U.S. English tends to simplify words with double consonants by using only one letter. This simplification aligns with other American English spellings like traveled (not travelled) and modeled (not modelled).
If you’re writing for an American audience, it’s more common to use cancelation, but you may still encounter cancellation in formal or official documents.
British English: Cancellation
In British English, cancellation with two “l’s” is the standard form. British English generally retains the older, more traditional spellings, and uses the double “l” consistently in words like canceled (as cancelled), traveled (as travelled), and modeling (as modelling).
For British readers, always opt for cancellation. It is the correct and most widely accepted version.
Why Do American and British English Differ in the Use of Single or Double “L”?
The variation between American and British spelling of cancelation and cancellation is part of the broader divergence in English. In the early 19th century, American lexicographer Noah Webster introduced spelling reforms to simplify the language, particularly in terms of dropping double consonants in many words. This led to the American preference for cancelation and canceled.
In contrast, British English preserved the double “l” in many words. The rule follows a pattern in which British English doubles consonants after a single vowel when the stress falls on the final syllable, such as in travelled and cancelled.
| American English | British English |
| Channeled | Channelled |
| Enamored | Enamoured |
| Pultitled | Pulltitled |
| Gravelled | Gravelled |
| Jewelers | Jewellers |
| Traveled | Travelled |
| Canceling | Cancelling |
| Theater | Theatre |
| Color | Colour |
| Organize | Organise |
Synonyms of “Cancellation”
To avoid repetition in your writing, here are some synonyms of cancellation that can be used depending on context:
- Annulment: Often used in legal contexts when something is declared invalid.
- Revocation: The official withdrawal or cancellation of a decision or agreement.
- Termination: Used to describe the end of an agreement or process.
- Abolishment: Refers to the formal removal or nullification of something.
- Rescission: A legal term that refers to the act of canceling a contract or agreement.
- Calling off: Informally used when an event or plan is canceled.
- Invalidation: Making something no longer valid or effective.
These synonyms can add variety and clarity to your writing while conveying the idea of canceling or ending something.
Examples in Context
Here’s how you can use cancelation and cancellation in sentences:
- Cancelation:
- The cancelation of the event was necessary due to weather conditions.
- Due to unforeseen circumstances, the cancelation of your subscription is effective immediately.
- Cancellation:
- The hotel’s cancellation policy allows you to cancel for a full refund.
- We were notified of the cancellation of the conference at the last minute.
Both forms are interchangeable in meaning, but their spelling depends on whether you follow American or British conventions.
Origins of “Cancellation”
The word cancellation originated in the 1530s, derived from the Latin word cancellare, meaning “to make lattice-like” or “to cross out.” This was used historically to describe the act of marking through text to indicate that it was no longer valid.
In the 15th century, the term began to be used in medical texts, where it referred to the crossing out of retinal images. By the 20th century, cancellation had evolved to describe the ending or voiding of plans, services, or agreements, which we commonly use today.
How to Spell Cancellation or Cancelation: Tips for Writers
If you’re unsure whether to use cancelation or cancellation, here are some helpful tips:
- Consider your audience: If you’re writing for an American audience, cancelation is more common, while British audiences prefer cancellation.
- Be consistent: Stick to one form throughout your text to maintain clarity and professionalism.
- In doubt? Use cancellation: If you’re unsure about which form to choose, cancellation is the safest option since it’s accepted in both British and American English.
Cancelation or Cancellation Letter: A Guide
A cancelation or cancellation letter is a formal document used to inform someone of the cancellation of a service, event, or agreement. Here’s a simple structure for writing such a letter:
- Subject: “Cancellation of [Service/Agreement/Event Name]”
- Salutation: “Dear [Name],”
- Body:
- Reason: Briefly mention why the cancellation is happening.
- Details: Include specific dates or other details if relevant.
- Closing: Politely thank the recipient and offer any necessary next steps or alternatives.
Example:
- Subject: Cancellation of Gym Membership
Dear [Name],
I am writing to inform you that I will be canceling my gym membership effective [Date]. I appreciate your services and hope to rejoin in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
In summary, whether you use cancelation or cancellation depends on the form of English you are using. While both versions are technically correct, cancellation is the preferred spelling in British English, and cancelation is more common in American English. To ensure your writing is clear and professional, always tailor your choice of spelling to your audience, and when in doubt, opt for cancellation.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose the correct spelling in your writing, avoiding confusion and ensuring consistency across your content.
