Totalling or Totaling: Which Spelling to Use?

Totalling or Totaling—this question often puzzles many writers. The difference comes down to spelling variations in English. In British English, people use “totalling” with a double “l.” In contrast, American English prefers “totaling” with a single “l.” 

This blog post will explore the meanings, differences, and usages of these terms. We will also look at regional language preferences and how to choose the right spelling based on your audience.

What do “Totalling” and “Totaling” Mean?

The terms “totalling” and “totaling” both refer to the action of adding numbers together or calculating a total. When you are adding up amounts, you are totalling or totaling them. This can apply to various contexts, such as finances, statistics, or even counting items.

In British English, the word “totalling” is often used. It emphasizes the action of summing values. For example, “The accountant is totalling the expenses.” Here, it clearly indicates the process of calculating the total amount.

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“Totalling” or “Totaling”: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between “totalling” and “totaling” lies in the spelling. British English employs the double “l,” while American English opts for a single “l.” This distinction is part of a broader trend of spelling differences between the two forms of English.

Other examples of these spelling variations include words like “travelling” versus “traveling” and “centre” versus “center.” Understanding these differences is crucial for effective communication. It helps you choose the correct form based on your audience.

Here’s a table outlining the main keywords related to the topic “Totalling” or “Totaling”: What’s the Difference?

Aspect	Totalling (British English)	Totaling (American English)
Spelling	Double “l”	Single “l”
Usage	Common in UK	Common in US
Meaning	The act of adding numbers	The act of adding numbers
Context	Used in British documents	Used in American documents
Examples	“The report is totalling…”	“The report is totaling…”
Style Guides	British style guides favor it	American style guides favor it
Regional Preference	British English preference	American English preference

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Why There is Confusion Between “Totalling” and “Totaling”?

Confusion often arises due to the differing spelling conventions in British and American English. Many people encounter both forms in their reading. However, they may not realize the significance of the difference. This can lead to uncertainty about which spelling to use.

The historical context also plays a role. In the early 20th century, there was a push for simplified spelling in English. This movement aimed to standardize and simplify spelling rules. As a result, some words were altered to reflect a more straightforward approach. “Totaling” became the standard in American English as part of this reform.

British Spelling	American Spelling
Travelling	Traveling
Centre	Center
Totalling	Totaling

Synonyms of “Totalling” or “Totaling”

1. “Totalling”:

Here are 10 synonyms 

• Summing
• Calculating
• Adding
• Counting
• Tallying
• Reckoning
• Compiling
• Enumerating
• Aggregating
• Accumulating

2. “Totaling”

Here are 10  synonyms 

• Total
• Sum
• Calculation
• Addition
• Tally
• Aggregate
• Amount
• Figure
• Count
• Result

Synonym	Meaning
Summing	The process of adding numbers together
Calculating	Determining the total amount
Adding up	The action of putting numbers together

Using “Totalling” and “Totaling” in Sentences

1. Totalling :

Here are 20 sentences using “totalling” 

First section 

• The teacher is totalling the scores from the exam.
• The accountant is totaling the expenses for the month.
• She is totalling the number of participants in the event.
• The software is totaling the sales for the quarter.
• They are totalling the votes after the election.
• The manager is totaling the hours worked by each employee.
• The report is totalling the project costs for budget approval.
• He is totaling the miles driven during the trip.
• The analyst is totalling the data collected from the survey.
• The team is totalling the points scored in the game.

2nd section 

• The student was totalling the answers for her math homework.
• The volunteer is totaling the donations received for the charity.
• The clerk is totalling the items in the shopping cart.
• The researcher is totaling the findings from the experiment.
• The auditor is totaling the financial records for accuracy.
• The coach is totalling the training hours of each athlete.
• The technician is totaling the repairs made on the vehicle.
• The librarian is totalling the books checked out this month.
• The director is totaling the feedback from the audience.
• The event coordinator is totalling the attendees for the conference.

2. Totaling:

Here are 20 sentences using “totaling”

First section 

• The software is totaling the inventory for the month.
• The accountant is totaling the expenses for the year.
• The team is totaling the points from the last game.
• The manager is totaling the sales figures for the quarter.
• The student is totaling her grades for the semester.
• The analyst is totaling the responses from the survey.
• The cashier is totaling the bill for the customer.
• The report is totaling all the costs associated with the project.
• The technician is totaling the hours worked on the job.
• The committee is totaling the votes from the election.

2nd section 

• The software is totaling the hours logged by each employee.
• The project manager is totaling the budget allocations for each department.
• The researcher is totaling the data collected during the study.
• The event planner is totaling the RSVPs for the upcoming gathering.
• The auditor is totaling the receipts for the financial review.
• The volunteer is totaling the donations received during the fundraiser.
• The teacher is totaling the assignments submitted by students.
• The delivery driver is totaling the packages delivered for the day.
• The librarian is totaling the books returned this week.
• The coach is totaling the training hours logged by the athletes.

Conclusion

The choice between totalling or totaling depends on your audience and context. British English favors “totalling,” while American English opts for “totaling.” Understanding these spelling differences is vital for effective communication. By recognizing the meanings, usages, and regional preferences, you can choose the correct spelling confidently. This knowledge will help you write clearly and accurately, regardless of your audience.

FAQ” S

What is the correct spelling in American English? 

The correct spelling in American English is “totaling.”

Do both spellings mean the same thing?

Yes, both “totalling” and “totaling” refer to the act of adding numbers together.

Why do we have different spellings? 

The differences arise from regional language preferences and historical spelling reforms.

Can I use “totalling” in American writing? 

While it is technically correct, it is best to use “totaling” in American contexts.

What are some synonyms for “totaling”? 

Some synonyms include “summing,” “calculating total,” and “adding numbers together.”