Fortnightly vs. Biweekly: Difference and Comparison
By Muazma Batool — Updated on September 5, 2023
"Fortnightly" means once every two weeks; "biweekly" can mean either twice a week or once every two weeks, making it potentially ambiguous.
Difference Between Fortnightly and Biweekly
"Fortnightly" is derived from the phrase "fourteen nights." As such, it clearly and exclusively denotes a period of two weeks or an event occurring every two weeks. For instance, a magazine published fortnightly is released every two weeks, or a person paid fortnightly receives their salary every two weeks. This term is more common in British English than in American English.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
"Biweekly," on the other hand, is a term rooted in ambiguity. In the strictest sense, "biweekly" should mean twice a week, stemming from the prefix "bi-" meaning two. However, in many contexts, especially in American English, "biweekly" is also understood to mean once every two weeks, making its definition overlap with "fortnightly."
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
This potential for confusion between the two meanings of "biweekly" necessitates clarification in certain contexts. If precision is paramount, it's advisable to use "fortnightly" or to specify "every two weeks" instead of using "biweekly."
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
In terms of usage, "fortnightly" is more prevalent in regions such as the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Meanwhile, "biweekly" sees more widespread use in the United States, where it might be used to describe meetings, payments, or publications that occur every two weeks or twice a week.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Fortnightly vs. Biweekly Comparison Chart
Fortnightly vs. Biweekly Definitions
◉Fortnightly
Occurring or produced every two weeks.
The magazine has a fortnightly circulation.
Jonathan
Sep 05, 2023
◉Fortnightly
A period of fourteen nights and days.
They took a fortnightly trip.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
◉Biweekly
Spanning or lasting two weeks.
The biweekly seminar concluded successfully.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
◉Biweekly
Taking place twice within a seven-day period.
Their biweekly workouts are intense.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
◉Fortnightly
Lasting for a span of two weeks.
His vacation was a fortnightly break.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
◉Fortnightly
Equivalent to the length of half a month.
The fortnightly schedule is rigid.
Jonathan
Sep 05, 2023
◉Fortnightly
Occurring or appearing once in a fortnight; as, a fortnightly meeting of a club; a fortnightly magazine, or other publication.
Muazma Batool
May 03, 2023
◉Biweekly
Something that is published or released once every two weeks.
The local paper is a biweekly.
Muazma Batool
May 03, 2023
Fortnightly vs. Biweekly Frequently Asked Questions
Is a biweekly magazine the same as a fortnightly one
It could be if it's published every two weeks.
Kaitlyn
Sep 05, 2023
Can I use fortnightly to avoid confusion
Yes, "fortnightly" is unambiguous and means every two weeks.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Does biweekly always mean twice a week
No, it can also mean once every two weeks.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
How can I be sure of what biweekly means
It's best to clarify the context or use an alternative term.
Olivia
Sep 05, 2023
Which term is more precise
"Fortnightly" is more precise as it only means every two weeks.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
In which industries might I encounter "biweekly"
You might hear "biweekly" in payroll, publishing, or scheduling contexts.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Is there a monthly equivalent for fortnightly
Yes, the term "monthly" refers to once a month.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Is fortnightly common in American English
No, it's more common in British English.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Does biweekly have other equivalents
Yes, it can also mean "semi-weekly" when referring to twice a week.
Muazma Batool
Sep 05, 2023
Content Creators
Written 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.
