Oughties vs. Noughties — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 19, 2024
Oughties and Noughties both refer to the decade from 2000 to 2009, but "Noughties" is more commonly used, especially in British English, while "Oughties" is less prevalent.
Difference Between Oughties and Noughties
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Oughties refers to the decade from 2000 to 2009, but it's not a widely accepted term. It attempts to play on the sound of "ought," meaning zero. Noughties, on the other hand, is a more widely recognized term for the same decade. It combines "nought," a British term for zero, with "ties," mimicking the word "nineties." This term is especially popular in British English and has gained more traction globally.
While Oughties might be used occasionally in American English, it lacks the widespread recognition and usage that Noughties has achieved. The latter has become the go-to term for referring to the early 2000s, particularly in media and pop culture.
Both terms aim to define the same period, but Noughties has a playful, familiar ring that resonates more with the general public. The prevalence of Noughties in literature, media, and conversation makes it the preferred choice for most people discussing the 2000-2009 decade.
Although Oughties could theoretically be used interchangeably, its rarity means that Noughties is more likely to be understood and accepted by a broader audience. The dominance of Noughties in British English especially solidifies its status as the primary term for the first decade of the 21st century.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Refers to the decade 2000-2009
Refers to the decade 2000-2009
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Common Usage
Rare
Common, especially in British English
Origin
Derived from "ought" (zero)
Derived from "nought" (zero)
Popularity
Low
High
Media Presence
Minimal
Significant
Compare with Definitions
Oughties
A less common term for the early 2000s.
Some people refer to the 2000s as the Oughties.
Noughties
Popular term in British English for the 2000s.
In the UK, people often talk about the Noughties.
Oughties
Derived from "ought," meaning zero.
Oughties uses the old-fashioned term for zero.
Noughties
The decade from 2000 to 2009.
The Noughties were known for technological advances.
Oughties
The decade from 2000 to 2009.
The fashion trends of the Oughties were quite distinct.
Noughties
Widely recognized and used in media.
TV shows often reference the Noughties.
Oughties
Rarely used in modern language.
Oughties is not a term you'll hear often.
Noughties
Combines "nought" (zero) and "ties."
Noughties cleverly blends nought and ties.
Oughties
Sometimes seen in American English contexts.
In some circles, the Oughties is still used.
Noughties
More familiar and accepted term.
Noughties is a term everyone understands.
Oughties
A decade running from the first year of a century to the tenth.
Noughties
The first decade of a century: from 1900 to 1909, 2000 to 2009, etc.
Common Curiosities
Is Oughties used in American English?
Oughties can be found in American English but is much less common than Noughties.
What does Oughties mean?
Oughties refers to the decade from 2000 to 2009, derived from "ought" meaning zero.
Why is the term Noughties popular?
Noughties is popular due to its catchy and playful nature, making it widely accepted in media and conversation.
Are Oughties and Noughties interchangeable?
They refer to the same decade, but Noughties is more widely understood and accepted.
Which term is more common, Oughties or Noughties?
Noughties is more common and widely recognized, particularly in British English.
Is Noughties used outside of the UK?
Yes, while it is especially popular in the UK, Noughties is also recognized and used in other English-speaking regions.
Where did the term Oughties come from?
Oughties comes from "ought," an old-fashioned term for zero.
What does Noughties mean?
Noughties is a popular term for the decade from 2000 to 2009, especially in British English, combining "nought" (zero) and "ties."
Where did the term Noughties originate?
Noughties originated from "nought," the British term for zero, combined with "ties" to mimic "nineties."
Is there a regional preference for these terms?
Yes, Noughties is preferred in British English, while Oughties might occasionally be seen in American English.
Can I use Oughties in formal writing?
You can, but it may not be immediately understood by all readers compared to Noughties.
Which term should I use in conversation?
Noughties is preferable as it is more likely to be recognized and understood.
Why is Oughties less common?
Oughties is less common because it lacks the catchy appeal and widespread media usage of Noughties.
Do both terms mean the same thing?
Yes, both terms refer to the decade from 2000 to 2009.
How has media influenced the use of Noughties?
Media has popularized Noughties through frequent usage in TV, films, and publications, making it the dominant term.
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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.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
