Authorised vs. Authorized: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
"Authorised" and "Authorized" have the same meaning, referring to having official permission or approval, but differ in British and American spelling, respectively.
Key Differences
"Authorised" is the British English spelling, while "Authorized" is the American English spelling. Both words convey the same meaning of having official permission or approval.
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Nov 22, 2023
In British English contexts, "authorised" is the standard spelling used in official documents, literature, and formal writing. In contrast, "authorized" is the preferred spelling in American English, used in similar contexts in the United States.
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Nov 22, 2023
The meaning of "authorised" and "authorized" is the same, denoting approval, sanction, or empowerment by an authority. This applies to various contexts, including legal, financial, and administrative areas.
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Nov 22, 2023
"Authorised" is commonly seen in British publications, legal documents, and formal communication. "Authorized," on the other hand, is predominant in American books, governmental documents, and official announcements.
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Nov 22, 2023
Both "authorised" and "authorized" are recognized and understood globally, but the choice of spelling depends on the regional language preference, whether it's British or American English.
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Nov 22, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Usage in Literature
Used in British publications
Used in American publications
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Nov 22, 2023
Official Documents
Appears in British legal documents
Appears in American legal documents
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Nov 22, 2023
Meaning
Having official permission or approval
Having official permission or approval
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Nov 22, 2023
Global Understanding
Recognized globally, preferred in the UK
Recognized globally, preferred in the US
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Authorised and Authorized Definitions
Authorised
Given official permission.
The agent was authorised to sign the contract on behalf of the company.
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Authorized
Officially allowed to perform a particular action.
He was authorized to make the financial decisions.
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Authorised
Sanctioned or approved by an authority.
The construction was authorised by the local council.
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Authorized
Endorsed or ratified officially.
The new educational program was authorized by the school board.
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Authorised
Legally empowered or certified.
She was authorised as a legal representative.
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Authorized
Given official permission.
The committee authorized the new research project.
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Authorised
Endorsed or ratified officially.
The policy was authorised by the board of directors.
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Authorized
Legally empowered or certified.
She was authorized to practice law in the state.
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Authorised
Officially allowed to perform a particular action.
He was authorised to access the restricted files.
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Authorized
Sanctioned or approved by an authority.
The mayor authorized the renovation of the historic building.
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Authorized
To give permission for (something); sanction
The city agency that authorizes construction projects.
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Oct 19, 2023
Authorised
Sanctioned by established authority;
An authoritative communique
The authorized biography
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Authorized
Possessed of or endowed with authority; as, an authorized agent.
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Authorized
Sanctioned by established authority;
An authoritative communique
The authorized biography
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What does authorised mean?
It means having official permission or approval (British English).
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Nov 22, 2023
Is authorized used in British publications?
Generally, "authorised" is preferred in British English.
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Nov 22, 2023
What does authorized mean?
It means having official permission or approval (American English).
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Nov 22, 2023
Are authorised and authorized interchangeable?
Yes, but the usage depends on whether it's British or American English.
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Nov 22, 2023
Does authorized only apply to government approvals?
No, it spans a range of official sanctions.
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Nov 22, 2023
Does authorised only apply to legal matters?
No, it can apply to various official approvals.
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Nov 22, 2023
Is authorised used in American publications?
Typically, "authorized" is used in American English.
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Nov 22, 2023
In which countries is authorised commonly used?
Countries that follow British English, like the UK and Australia.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can a document be both authorised and authorized?
The terms mean the same, but spelling varies by English variant.
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Nov 22, 2023
Is authorised/authorized used in academic writing?
Yes, in the respective English variants.
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Nov 22, 2023
How do I know which spelling to use?
It depends on your regional language preference.
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Nov 22, 2023
Are there different levels of being authorised/authorized?
The level of authority depends on the context, not the spelling.
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Nov 22, 2023
Is authorised/authorized used in business?
Yes, in contracts, agreements, and official decisions.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can an individual be authorised/authorized?
Yes, individuals can be given official authority.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can software be authorised/authorized?
Yes, in terms of licensing and permissions.
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Is authorised/authorized a legal term?
It is used legally but also in other contexts.
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Nov 22, 2023
Can a company be authorised/authorized?
Yes, for various official functions and services.
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In which countries is authorized commonly used?
In the United States and other countries using American English.
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Nov 22, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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