Authorised vs. Authorized — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 20, 2023
"Authorised" is British English spelling; "Authorized" is American English spelling, both meaning having received approval.
Difference Between Authorised and Authorized
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Key Differences
"Authorised" and "Authorized" both signify that something or someone has received the necessary approval or sanction. The primary distinction lies in their regional usage, with "Authorised" being preferred in British English contexts and "Authorized" in American English ones.
If you're reading a document from the UK, it's likely to mention that someone is "Authorised" to perform a task. In contrast, an American document would state that someone is "Authorized" for a specific role or action.
Both "Authorised" and "Authorized" serve as adjectives to describe a state of being granted permission. However, their different spellings reflect the nuances between American and British English, akin to the differences between "colour" (British) and "color" (American).
When businesses operate internationally, they often need to be mindful of these spelling differences. A British company might have an "Authorised dealer" network, while an American company would have "Authorized dealers."
Regardless of the spelling, the underlying meaning remains consistent: the entity or individual has been given formal approval or authority to act in a particular manner.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Origin
British English
American English
Used in Regions
UK, Australia, India, etc.
USA, Canada
Example of Similar Variants
Colour, Favour
Color, Favor
Common Usage
Business, legal documents in British context
Business, legal context in American setting
Part of Speech
Adjective/Verb
Adjective/Verb
Compare with Definitions
Authorised
Sanctioned by a governing body or authority.
The Authorised biography provides deep insights.
Authorized
Given official permission or approval.
Only Authorized personnel are allowed in this area.
Authorised
Given approval to act or serve in a capacity.
He is an Authorised dealer for the brand.
Authorized
Having the backing of a governing body.
She is an Authorized distributor of the software.
Authorised
Having the power or right to give orders or make decisions.
Only Authorised staff can make changes to the system.
Authorized
Allowed by the rules or laws.
He was Authorized to represent the client in court.
Authorised
Officially recognized or established.
This is an Authorised service center for repairs.
Authorized
Given the power or right by an authority.
Authorized dealers have specific guidelines to follow.
Authorised
Granted permission by an official entity.
The Authorised personnel can access the building.
Authorized
Recognized as official or legitimate.
This is the only Authorized biography of the celebrity.
Authorised
Alternative spelling of authorized
Authorized
Having official permission or approval
An authorized dealer
Authorized access to the computer
Authorised
Simple past tense and past participle of authorise
Authorized
To grant authority or power to.
Authorised
Endowed with authority
Authorized
To give permission for (something); sanction
The city agency that authorizes construction projects.
Authorised
Sanctioned by established authority;
An authoritative communique
The authorized biography
Authorized
Explicitly allowed.
Authorized
Simple past tense and past participle of authorize
Authorized
Possessed of or endowed with authority; as, an authorized agent.
Authorized
Sanctioned by authority.
Authorized
Endowed with authority
Authorized
Sanctioned by established authority;
An authoritative communique
The authorized biography
Common Curiosities
Is there a difference in meaning between "Authorised" and "Authorized"?
No, both words have the same meaning, but their spellings differ based on regional usage.
Can "Authorised" be used in American documents?
While "Authorised" is understood in the US, "Authorized" is the standard American spelling.
Are there other words that have similar differences in British and American English?
Yes, many words, like "colour" (British) vs. "color" (American) or "favour" (British) vs. "favor" (American).
Which version should I use in international documents?
It depends on your audience. If primarily American, use "Authorized"; otherwise, consider the preference of the majority of readers or use both versions.
Is it incorrect to use "Authorized" in the UK?
"Authorized" is understood in the UK, but "Authorised" is the standard British spelling.
Can a person be "Authorised" or "Authorized"?
Yes, individuals can be given official permission or authority to act in a specific capacity.
Is the difference between "Authorised" and "Authorized" only in writing?
The primary difference is in writing. In speech, they sound identical.
Do these words have synonyms?
Yes, synonyms include "sanctioned," "endorsed," and "approved."
Which spelling is used in Canada?
Canada typically uses American English spelling, so "Authorized" is more common.
Is it a mistake to mix both spellings in one document?
It's generally advisable to maintain consistency in spelling throughout a document.
How do I know which version to use in my writing?
Consider your audience and the regional standards of the English you're using.
Can "Authorised" and "Authorized" also be used as verbs?
Yes, both can be used as past tense verbs, e.g., "The manager Authorised the transaction" or "The manager Authorized the transaction."
Are these words commonly used in legal contexts?
Yes, both are frequently used in legal and business contexts to denote permission or authority.
Can software correct "Authorised" to "Authorized" based on settings?
Yes, many word processors or editing software can adjust the spelling based on the chosen language setting.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
