Humourless vs. Humorless — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 29, 2024
"Humourless" and "humorless" are different spellings of the same word, with "humourless" being preferred in British English and "humorless" in American English.
Difference Between Humourless and Humorless
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
"Humourless" is the British English spelling of the word used to describe a lack of humor, a quality that can make someone or something dull or unamusing. On the other hand, "humorless" is the American English spelling of the same word, representing the same lack of humor.
In terms of pronunciation, both versions are pronounced in the same way, /ˈhjuː.mə.ləs/, but the spelling reflects the linguistic preferences of the different forms of English. Whereas, both forms share the same usage in sentences and convey the same meaning in respective dialects.
Usage of "humourless" is common in countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, where British English is the standard. Meanwhile, "humorless" is predominantly used in the United States and other places where American English influences linguistic choices.
Despite their different spellings, both terms share the same definitions and implications in conversation and literature, contributing equally to the characterization of subjects as lacking wit or the ability to appreciate comedy.
While the spelling might differ, the role and understanding of the term remain consistent across English-speaking cultures, emphasizing the universality of the concept regardless of regional spelling differences.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Spelling
British English
American English
Pronunciation
/ˈhjuː.mə.ləs/
/ˈhjuː.mə.ləs/
Usage Regions
UK, Australia, New Zealand
United States, Canada
Linguistic Influence
Reflects British spelling norms
Reflects American spelling norms
Meaning and Use
Describes a lack of humor
Describes a lack of humor
Compare with Definitions
Humourless
Serious, somber, or dull.
The humourless tone of the meeting reflected the seriousness of the issues discussed.
Humorless
Serious, somber, or dull.
His humorless manner was intimidating at times.
Humourless
Lacking a sense of humor.
His humourless demeanor often made social gatherings quite dull.
Humorless
Reflecting a characteristic of being unamusing.
The humorless comments during the review made the critique particularly harsh.
Humourless
Not intended to be amusing.
The documentary presented a humourless look at the realities of war.
Humorless
Not able to appreciate or express humor.
Despite the attempts at jokes, her humorless expression never changed.
Humourless
Not able to appreciate or express humor.
The lecture was as dry and humourless as the textbook it was based on.
Humorless
Not intended to be amusing.
The humorless commentary during the film gave it a more somber tone.
Humourless
Reflecting a characteristic of being unamusing.
His humourless reply killed the jovial mood of the party.
Humorless
Lacking a sense of humor.
Humourless
Alternative spelling of humorless
Humorless
Said or done without humor
"She winked at me, but it was humorless.
A wink of warning" (Truman Capote).
Humourless
Lacking humor;
It was a humorless wink; a wink of warning
Humorless
(American spelling) Lacking humor or levity; serious; not funny, amusing, amused, or lighthearted.
He watched the little dog's antics with a humorless stare.
Humorless
Destitute of humor.
Humorless
Lacking humor;
It was a humorless wink; a wink of warning
Common Curiosities
Does the difference in spelling affect the meaning of the words?
No, the difference in spelling does not affect the meaning; both spellings refer to the lack of humor.
Why are there two different spellings for the same word?
The two different spellings reflect the standard spelling conventions of British and American English.
Can someone be described as humourless in a positive context?
Generally, being described as humourless is not viewed positively, as it implies a lack of wit or the ability to enjoy or engage in humor.
How should I spell "humourless/humorless" in academic writing?
The spelling should match the form of English you are using or that is required by the publication guidelines—British or American.
Are "humourless" and "humorless" interchangeable?
Yes, "humourless" and "humorless" are interchangeable, depending on the variant of English being used.
Is there a cultural preference for one spelling over the other?
Yes, British-influenced cultures prefer "humourless," and American-influenced cultures prefer "humorless."
Are there synonyms that can replace "humourless" or "humorless"?
Yes, synonyms like "unamusing," "stern," or "somber" can be used, depending on the context.
How can I remember which spelling to use?
A useful tip is to associate "u" in "humourless" with "UK" for British English and the absence of "u" in "humorless" with the U.S. for American English.
What might cause someone to be described as humourless or humorless?
Factors include personality, cultural influences, or even specific situations where humor is not appropriate or well received.
Do other English variants besides British and American use different spellings?
Other English variants typically follow either British or American spelling conventions, such as Canadian English favoring American spelling in this case.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
DJ vs. MC
Next Comparison
Fracture vs. BreakAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
