English spelling varies between regions, which can cause confusion. One common example is “totalling” vs. “totaling.” Both spellings exist, but their usage depends on location. British English uses “totalling,” while American English prefers “totaling.”
This difference follows specific spelling rules, particularly when adding suffixes like “-ing” to verbs. Understanding why one form has a double “L” and the other does not helps writers maintain consistency.
This article explains the meaning, differences, spelling rules, and correct usage of both terms. It also provides examples, synonyms, and common mistakes to ensure clear, error-free writing.
What Do “Totalling” and “Totaling” Mean?
Both “totalling” and “totaling” come from the verb “total,” which means to add up numbers or calculate a final amount. The difference between these two spellings is based on regional variations, not meaning.
When you total something, you find its complete sum. For example, in finance, you total expenses to determine the final cost. In damage reports, you may say a car is totaled if repairs exceed its value.
Both spellings function the same way in sentences. They are simply different forms of the same word, depending on whether you follow British or American English rules.
“Totalling” or “Totaling”: What’s the Difference?
The difference between “totalling” and “totaling” is based on spelling rules in British and American English. They have the same meaning but follow different conventions when adding the “-ing” suffix.
British English: “Totalling”
In British English, verbs ending in a single vowel followed by “L” double the “L” before adding “-ing.” This rule applies when the stress falls on the last syllable. Examples:
- Travel → Travelling
- Cancel → Cancelling
- Total → Totalling
American English: “Totaling”
In American English, the final “L” is not doubled before adding “-ing.” This follows a simplified spelling pattern used in the U.S. Examples:
- Travel → Traveling
- Cancel → Canceling
- Total → Totaling
The meaning stays the same, but spelling changes depending on the writing style you follow.
Why Is There Confusion Between “Totalling” and “Totaling”?
The confusion between “totalling” and “totaling” exists because of differences in spelling rules between British and American English. These variations affect many verbs ending in “-L” when adding suffixes like “-ing” or “-ed.”
Historical Differences in English Spelling
British English follows older spelling traditions influenced by Latin and French. It doubles the final “L” when adding a suffix if the stress is on the last syllable. American English simplifies spelling by removing unnecessary double letters. This rule was promoted by Noah Webster, an American lexicographer who helped standardize U.S. spelling.
Impact of Global English Variations
English is spoken worldwide, but different countries follow British or American spelling rules. Many Commonwealth countries, such as Canada, Australia, and India, prefer British English and use “totalling.” In contrast, the United States follows American spelling, making “totaling” the standard.
The Role of Spellcheck and Auto-Correction
Modern spellcheck tools often follow default U.S. English settings, which can lead to corrections favoring “totaling” over “totalling.” This can cause confusion, especially for writers using international English. Many software programs allow users to change their language settings to avoid incorrect corrections.
Spelling Rule: When to Use “Totalling” vs. “Totaling”
English spelling rules determine when to double the final “L” before adding the “-ing” suffix. The choice between “totalling” and “totaling” depends on the spelling conventions of British or American English.
British English Rule: Doubling the “L”
In British English, a verb ending in a single vowel + “L” doubles the “L” before adding “-ing” if the stress is not on the first syllable.
- Total → Totalling
- Travel → Travelling
- Label → Labelling
This rule applies to many verbs, ensuring consistency in spelling.
American English Rule: Keeping a Single “L”
In American English, the final “L” is not doubled before adding “-ing.”
- Total → Totaling
- Travel → Traveling
- Label → Labeling
This spelling pattern follows a simplified approach, making American English spelling different from British English.
One-Syllable vs. Multi-Syllable Verbs
For one-syllable verbs, both British and American English always double the “L.”
- Fill → Filling
- Drill → Drilling
For multi-syllable verbs, the doubling rule depends on syllable stress. If the last syllable is stressed, British English doubles the “L,” while American English does not.
Synonyms of “Totalling” and “Totaling”
Sometimes, using a synonym can improve clarity and avoid confusion between “totalling” and “totaling.” Several words can replace them in different contexts without changing the meaning.
Common Synonyms for “Totalling” or “Totaling”
These words work as direct replacements in most sentences:
- Adding up – Used when calculating multiple values.
- Summing – Common in mathematics and finance.
- Calculating – Used for precise mathematical or financial operations.
- Aggregating – Often used in data analysis and statistics.
Each synonym fits different writing styles and situations.
When to Use Synonyms
Using synonyms improves readability and prevents repetition. For example:
- Instead of: She is totalling the expenses for the project.
- Use: She is adding up the expenses for the project.
In professional writing, synonyms provide variety and make content more engaging. However, in formal grammar discussions, it is best to use “totalling” or “totaling” to maintain accuracy.
How to Use ‘Totalling’ and ‘Totaling’ in Sentences?
Both “totalling” and “totaling” are used in sentences depending on the spelling rules followed. Below are examples of how each word appears in British and American English writing.
Correct Usage of “Totalling” (British English)
The word “totalling” follows British spelling conventions and is common in the UK, Australia, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries.
Examples:
- The accountant is totalling the company’s monthly expenses.
- The votes were totalling over one million by the end of the day.
- The damages from the storm are totalling thousands of pounds.
- The hospital bills are totalling more than expected.
- The number of new customers is totalling around 500 this month.
- The weight of the cargo is totalling several tons.
- The number of visitors to the museum is totalling record-high levels.
- The expenses for the event are totalling more than our budget allows.
- The fines for the violations are totalling hundreds of dollars.
- The repair costs are totalling an amount higher than the car’s value.
Correct Usage of “Totaling” (American English)
The word “totaling” is standard in the United States and follows American spelling rules.
Examples:
- She is totaling the final cost of the groceries.
- The construction project is totaling over $500,000 in expenses.
- His earnings for the year are totaling a significant amount.
- The weight of the packages is totaling nearly 200 pounds.
- The number of reported cases is totaling more than expected.
- The hospital expenses are totaling over $10,000.
- The number of attendees is totaling close to 2,000.
- The company’s annual losses are totaling millions.
- The refund requests are totaling a large sum.
- The damages from the accident are totaling more than $50,000.
Both spellings are grammatically correct. Writers should choose the form that aligns with their audience’s preferred spelling style.
What Are the Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them?
Writers often confuse “totalling” and “totaling” due to differences in spelling rules and regional variations. Understanding these mistakes helps avoid errors in formal and professional writing.
1. Using the Wrong Spelling for the Target Audience
One of the most common mistakes is using British spelling in American writing or vice versa. This inconsistency can make content look unprofessional.
How to Avoid It:
- Identify the audience. Use “totalling” for British English and “totaling” for American English.
- Check style guides. Organizations and publications often follow specific spelling conventions.
2. Letting Auto-Correct Change the Spelling
Many word processors and spell checkers default to American English. This can automatically change “totalling” to “totaling,” even in British English documents.
How to Avoid It:
- Manually select the language setting in writing software.
- Review the text carefully before finalizing.
3. Mixing Both Spellings in One Document
Some writers switch between “totalling” and “totaling” in the same text, leading to inconsistency.
How to Avoid It:
- Stick to one spelling throughout the entire document.
- Use proofreading tools to check for inconsistencies.
4. Assuming One Spelling Is Incorrect
Both spellings are correct, depending on the region. Some learners mistakenly believe one is a typo.
How to Avoid It:
- Recognize both versions as valid.
- Follow the appropriate spelling rules based on the writing context.
Avoiding these mistakes improves clarity, professionalism, and correctness in writing.
Final Thoughts
Both “totalling” and “totaling” are correct, but the choice depends on regional spelling rules. British English uses “totalling,” while American English prefers “totaling.”
Writers should stay consistent and follow the spelling conventions of their target audience. Checking language settings, style guides, and proofreading carefully ensures correct usage.
Understanding these differences helps improve writing accuracy and professionalism. Whether you use British or American spelling, consistency is key to clear and effective communication.
Sources & References:
- Cambridge Dictionary – Definition of “Totalling” and “Totaling”
- Grammarist – Totalled vs. Totaled: British vs. American Spelling
- Thesaurus.com – Synonyms & Antonyms for “Totaling”
