Comparisons Wiki

Finalized vs. Finalised: Difference and Comparison

Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on September 30, 2023
"Finalized" is the preferred American English spelling, while "finalised" is the British English version, both meaning "brought to completion."
Finalized vs. Finalised

Difference Between Finalized and Finalised

"Finalized" and "finalised" both stem from the verb "finalize" or "finalise," respectively. They indicate the process of completing, settling, or making something final. The primary distinction between the two lies not in their meanings but in their regional spelling variations.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
In American English, the standard is to use "finalized." Americans are familiar with this form, and it's prevalent in all American publications, documents, and contexts. When someone in the U.S. talks about having "finalized" a deal, they mean they've concluded or completed all necessary arrangements or negotiations.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Conversely, "finalised" is the version you'll encounter in British English. In the UK and many other countries that follow British spelling conventions, "finalised" is the go-to choice. Thus, in a British context, one might say that they "finalised" their plans for the weekend.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
Despite this spelling discrepancy, both words carry identical implications. It's crucial to recognize such regional differences, especially in professional or academic settings where adhering to a specific English style might be essential. Understanding both variations allows for better communication with diverse English-speaking audiences globally.
Jonathan
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized vs. Finalised Comparison Chart

Regional Usage

American English
British English
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Spelling

Uses "z"
Uses "s"
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023

Meaning

Brought to completion
Brought to completion
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Example Sentence

He finalized the contract.
She finalised the document.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Appearance in Dictionaries

Seen in U.S. dictionaries
Seen in U.K. dictionaries
Olivia
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized vs. Finalised Definitions

Finalized

Determined or established something permanently.
The company finalized its new policy.
Lucas
Sep 30, 2023

Finalised

Refers to the act of completing something in British English.
The committee finalised its recommendations.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized

Indicates the conclusion of negotiations or deliberations.
We finalized the terms of the agreement.
Levi
Sep 30, 2023

Finalised

Indicates the end of negotiations or considerations in UK contexts.
They finalised the sale of the house.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized

Refers to the act of completing something.
The team finalized the project on time.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023

Finalised

Determining or solidifying something in a permanent manner in UK English.
The council finalised the new regulations.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized

To settle or decide conclusively.
The couple finalized their wedding date.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023

Finalised

To settle or decide with finality in British English.
The university finalised its list of accepted students.
Leo
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized

Bringing something to its finished state.
The artist finalized his masterpiece.
Lucas
Sep 30, 2023

Finalised

Achieving a finished state, as per British conventions.
The author finalised her novel.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Finalized

To put into final form; complete.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023

Finalised

simple past tense and past participle of finalise
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023

Finalized

simple past tense and past participle of finalize
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023

Finalized vs. Finalised Frequently Asked Questions

Which spelling is preferred in the UK?

"Finalised" is the preferred spelling in British English.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023

If writing for an international audience, which should I use?

Consider the audience's majority, but "finalized" might be more universally recognized.
Leo
Sep 30, 2023

In academic papers, does it matter which one I use?

Always adhere to the style guide provided, but be consistent in your choice throughout the paper.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023

Which form will I encounter in international business settings?

"Finalized" is more commonly used in international business, but understanding both is beneficial.
William
Sep 30, 2023

Which spelling is used in American English?

"Finalized" is the American English spelling.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Can the spelling difference cause misunderstandings in communication?

While both are understood by English speakers, using the appropriate regional spelling is always best for clarity.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023

Is one more correct than the other?

Neither is more correct; it's a matter of regional preference.
Nolan
Sep 30, 2023

Do English learners need to learn both spellings?

It's helpful to be aware of both, especially if engaging with both American and British content.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Do they have different meanings?

No, both words convey the same meaning of bringing something to completion.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023

Do other English words have similar American and British spelling differences?

Yes, many words, like "realize/realise" or "apologize/apologise," follow this pattern.
Elijah
Sep 30, 2023

Content Creators

Written by
Muneeza Rehman
At 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 Batool
As 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.

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