Grueling vs. Gruelling — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 24, 2024
"Grueling" and "gruelling" are variants of the same word; "grueling" is preferred in American English while "gruelling" is used in British English.
Difference Between Grueling and Gruelling
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
"Grueling" is the American English spelling used to describe something that is extremely tiring and demanding. Meanwhile, "gruelling" follows the British English convention, adding an extra 'l' but maintaining the same pronunciation and meaning.
In American publications and writings, "grueling" is commonly seen, aligning with other American English spellings that often simplify by dropping letters. In contrast, British English retains the double 'l' in "gruelling," consistent with other similarly spelled words like "travelling" or "counselling."
When using spell check or writing software, "grueling" might be flagged as incorrect in a British English setting, whereas "gruelling" could be marked in American English systems, underscoring the regional preferences in spelling.
The choice between "grueling" and "gruelling" can also reflect the intended audience or the stylistic guidelines of a publication, with "grueling" often seen in American journals and "gruelling" in British or Commonwealth texts.
Despite the spelling differences, both forms are understood globally and are interchangeable in meaning, both referring to an experience that is exhaustively demanding and tough.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Spelling Variant
American English
British English
Letter Difference
Single 'l'
Double 'l'
Usage
American texts
British and Commonwealth texts
Spell Check
Correct in US
Correct in UK
Meaning
Exhaustively demanding
Exhaustively demanding
Compare with Definitions
Grueling
Extremely demanding and exhausting.
The grueling marathon left every runner exhausted.
Gruelling
Characterized by requiring significant physical or mental effort.
The gruelling schedule took a toll on the team.
Grueling
Marked by severity or harshness.
The grueling heat of the desert was unbearable.
Gruelling
Known for extreme conditions or requirements.
They faced a gruelling journey through the snow.
Grueling
Often associated with prolonged tasks.
The construction work was grueling but rewarding.
Gruelling
Exhaustively demanding in nature.
She described her climb up the mountain as gruelling.
Grueling
Requiring a lot of effort to endure.
The soldiers went through grueling training.
Gruelling
Involving long-duration challenges.
The debate competition was as intellectually gruelling as expected.
Grueling
Involving rigorous challenges.
The exam was a grueling four hours long.
Gruelling
Pertaining to difficult and prolonged activities.
The gruelling rehearsal schedule improved their performance immensely.
Grueling
Physically or mentally demanding to the point of exhaustion
A grueling campaign.
Gruelling
Physically or mentally demanding to the point of exhaustion
A grueling campaign.
Grueling
Alternative spelling of gruelling.
Gruelling
So difficult or taxing as to make one exhausted; backbreaking.
Grueling
Alternative spelling of gruelling.
Gruelling
(racing) A race in which the animal being raced finishes in a state of physical exhaustion.
Grueling
Present participle of gruel
Gruelling
A gruelling ordeal.
Grueling
Characterized by toilsome effort; requiring extreme physical or mental effort; as, a grueling campaign.
Gruelling
Present participle of gruel
Grueling
Characterized by toilsome effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effort;
Worked their arduous way up the mining valley
A grueling campaign
Hard labor
Heavy work
Heavy going
Spent many laborious hours on the project
Set a punishing pace
Gruelling
Characterized by toilsome effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effort;
Worked their arduous way up the mining valley
A grueling campaign
Hard labor
Heavy work
Heavy going
Spent many laborious hours on the project
Set a punishing pace
Common Curiosities
How do I know which spelling of "grueling/gruelling" to use?
Consider your audience or consult a style guide if writing for publication.
Is there a difference in meaning between "grueling" and "gruelling"?
No, they mean the same; the difference is only in spelling.
Are there other words that differ like "grueling" and "gruelling"?
Yes, such as "modeling" (US) vs. "modelling" (UK).
When should I use "grueling" versus "gruelling"?
Use "grueling" for American audiences and "gruelling" for British or Commonwealth audiences.
Does the spelling change affect the pronunciation of "grueling/gruelling"?
No, both variants are pronounced the same way.
What does "grueling" mean?
"Grueling" refers to something that is extremely tiring and challenging.
Are there synonyms for "grueling" and "gruelling"?
Yes, words like "arduous" and "strenuous" are synonyms.
Can the context change the preference for "grueling" or "gruelling"?
Yes, context such as regional settings or the presence of other regional spellings can influence preference.
How should I teach the difference between "grueling" and "gruelling"?
Highlight the regional spelling preferences and ensure understanding of the context in which each is used.
Which spelling is more commonly used globally?
"Gruelling" is more common globally due to the influence of British English.
Can "grueling" and "gruelling" be used interchangeably in academic writing?
Yes, but consistency with the chosen style guide or regional spelling is recommended.
Is one spelling considered more formal than the other?
No, formality is the same; the difference is purely geographical.
Will using the wrong variant of "grueling/gruelling" impact my writing's reception?
It could, depending on the strictness of the audience regarding British vs. American English norms.
Is the use of "grueling" increasing or decreasing?
Usage trends can vary, but American English influences might increase the prevalence of "grueling."
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Betrothal vs. Engagement
Next Comparison
Polymer vs. CeramicAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited 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.
