Categorise vs. Categorize: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on September 25, 2023
"Categorise" and "categorize" have the same meaning, designating the act of placing into categories. The difference is regional: "categorise" is British English, and "categorize" is American English.
Difference Between Categorise and Categorize
"Categorise" and "categorize" represent the same action and concept, but they hail from different linguistic traditions. The essence of their meaning is universally understood, but their spelling nuances cater to regional preferences in the English language.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
"Categorise" is the spelling adopted in British English. It follows the pattern of many British words that use "-ise" endings, like "realise" or "apologise." When reading British literature or viewing content from the UK, one will likely come across "categorise." To someone from the US, this spelling might appear unfamiliar or archaic, but it remains standard in the UK.
Muazma Batool
Sep 25, 2023
On the other hand, "categorize" is the form you'll encounter in American English. The United States tends to favor the "-ize" endings for words, like "realize" and "apologize." So, if you're reading an American publication or watching an American show, "categorize" will be the norm.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
In essence, while both "categorise" and "categorize" hold the same semantic value, they exhibit slight spelling differences due to regional variations in English. Their core meaning remains consistent, allowing speakers from both sides of the Atlantic to understand each other perfectly.
Jonathan
Sep 25, 2023
Categorise vs. Categorize Comparison Chart
Categorise vs. Categorize Definitions
◉Categorise
To classify or sort into groups.
Scientists categorise animals based on certain traits.
Muazma Batool
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorize
To systematically order or classify.
The system will categorize emails as important or spam.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorise
To assign to a specific category.
We need to categorise these documents by date.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorize
To sort or arrange into classes or categories.
The museum will categorize the artifacts by origin.
Kaitlyn
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorise
To label or tag based on type.
The librarian will categorise these books by genre.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorize
To label or designate according to type.
Teachers categorize student performance using grades.
Jonathan
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorise
To arrange in a systematic order.
They used software to categorise the data.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorize
To identify as belonging to a specific group.
The test helps categorize learners as beginner or advanced.
William
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorise
To designate as belonging to a particular class.
The coach will categorise players by skill level.
Nolan
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorize
To group based on shared characteristics.
The software categorizes photos based on location.
William
Sep 25, 2023
◉Categorise
place into or assign to a category;
Children learn early on to categorize
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Categorize
(transitive) To assign a category; to divide into classes.
First, categorize incoming messages according to the needed actions.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Categorize
place into or assign to a category;
Children learn early on to categorize
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
Categorise vs. Categorize Frequently Asked Questions
Which spelling is common in American English?
"Categorize" is the spelling adopted in American English.
Henry
Sep 25, 2023
Which one is used in British English?
"Categorise" is the spelling used in British English.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
What does "categorise" mean?
"Categorise" means to place or assign something into a category or group.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
Is there a difference in meaning between "categorise" and "categorize"?
No, they mean the same thing; the distinction is regional.
Muazma Batool
Sep 25, 2023
Are there other words with similar regional spelling differences?
Yes, words like "realise/realize" or "apologise/apologize" follow the same pattern.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
Do both forms function the same in sentences?
Yes, both "categorise" and "categorize" function as verbs with the same meaning.
William
Sep 25, 2023
Are these words commonly used in everyday language?
Yes, especially in contexts where sorting or classifying is discussed.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
In academic writing, should one mix both spellings?
No, it's recommended to remain consistent with one form based on the style guide being followed.
Jonathan
Sep 25, 2023
Is there a pronunciation difference between the two?
Generally, no significant pronunciation difference exists between the two forms.
Olivia
Sep 25, 2023
How should a writer choose which form to use?
The choice often depends on the audience's region or the publication's style guide.
Kaitlyn
Sep 25, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
