Authorised vs. Authorized — What’s the Difference? (2024)

Table of Contents

British English

American English

UK, Australia, India, etc.

USA, Canada

Colour, Favour

Color, Favor

Business, legal documents in British context

Business, legal context in American setting

Adjective/Verb

Adjective/Verb

Authorised

Sanctioned by a governing body or authority.

The Authorised biography provides deep insights.

Authorized

Given official permission or approval.

Only Authorized personnel are allowed in this area.

Authorised

Given approval to act or serve in a capacity.

He is an Authorised dealer for the brand.

Authorized

Having the backing of a governing body.

She is an Authorized distributor of the software.

Authorised

Having the power or right to give orders or make decisions.

Only Authorised staff can make changes to the system.

Authorized

Allowed by the rules or laws.

He was Authorized to represent the client in court.

Authorised

Officially recognized or established.

This is an Authorised service center for repairs.

Authorized

Given the power or right by an authority.

Authorized dealers have specific guidelines to follow.

Authorised

Granted permission by an official entity.

The Authorised personnel can access the building.

Authorized

Recognized as official or legitimate.

This is the only Authorized biography of the celebrity.

Authorised

Alternative spelling of authorized

Authorized

Having official permission or approval

An authorized dealer

Authorized access to the computer

Authorised

Simple past tense and past participle of authorise

Authorized

To grant authority or power to.

Authorised

Endowed with authority

Authorized

To give permission for (something); sanction

The city agency that authorizes construction projects.

Authorised

Sanctioned by established authority;

An authoritative communique

The authorized biography

Authorized

Explicitly allowed.

Authorized

Simple past tense and past participle of authorize

Authorized

Possessed of or endowed with authority; as, an authorized agent.

Authorized

Sanctioned by authority.

Authorized

Endowed with authority

Authorized

Sanctioned by established authority;

An authoritative communique

The authorized biography

Is there a difference in meaning between "Authorised" and "Authorized"?

No, both words have the same meaning, but their spellings differ based on regional usage.

Can "Authorised" be used in American documents?

While "Authorised" is understood in the US, "Authorized" is the standard American spelling.

Are there other words that have similar differences in British and American English?

Yes, many words, like "colour" (British) vs. "color" (American) or "favour" (British) vs. "favor" (American).

Which version should I use in international documents?

It depends on your audience. If primarily American, use "Authorized"; otherwise, consider the preference of the majority of readers or use both versions.

Is it incorrect to use "Authorized" in the UK?

"Authorized" is understood in the UK, but "Authorised" is the standard British spelling.

Can a person be "Authorised" or "Authorized"?

Yes, individuals can be given official permission or authority to act in a specific capacity.

Is the difference between "Authorised" and "Authorized" only in writing?

The primary difference is in writing. In speech, they sound identical.

Do these words have synonyms?

Yes, synonyms include "sanctioned," "endorsed," and "approved."

Which spelling is used in Canada?

Canada typically uses American English spelling, so "Authorized" is more common.

Is it a mistake to mix both spellings in one document?

It's generally advisable to maintain consistency in spelling throughout a document.

How do I know which version to use in my writing?

Consider your audience and the regional standards of the English you're using.

Can "Authorised" and "Authorized" also be used as verbs?

Yes, both can be used as past tense verbs, e.g., "The manager Authorised the transaction" or "The manager Authorized the transaction."

Are these words commonly used in legal contexts?

Yes, both are frequently used in legal and business contexts to denote permission or authority.

Can software correct "Authorised" to "Authorized" based on settings?

Yes, many word processors or editing software can adjust the spelling based on the chosen language setting.

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Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.