Unsavory vs. Unsavoury — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 26, 2024
"Unsavory" (American English) and "Unsavoury" (British English) are variants spelling the same term, implying something distasteful or morally offensive.
Difference Between Unsavory and Unsavoury
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Unsavory" is the preferred spelling in American English, used to describe something morally offensive or unpleasant. Whereas "Unsavoury," spelled with an extra 'u', is the standard in British English.
When discussing food, "unsavory" might refer to tastes that are bland or unappetizing. On the other hand, "unsavoury" in British contexts can also carry this same meaning, reflecting a culinary disappointment.
In literature, "unsavory" characters are those whose morals or actions might be questionable, often adding complexity to the plot. Similarly, "unsavoury" characters in British novels serve the same purpose, enhancing narratives with their dubious qualities.
The media in the United States often uses "unsavory" to describe distasteful events or actions, such as scandals or corruption. In contrast, British media uses "unsavoury" to report similar stories, maintaining consistency with British spelling norms.
In legal and formal documents, "unsavory" might be used to describe actions that are ethically dubious or unpalatable. Whereas in the UK, such descriptions would typically use "unsavoury," aligning with the formal tone and local spelling standards.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
Unsavory
Unsavoury
Usage in Literature
Describes morally questionable characters
Same as US, but with UK spelling
Usage in Media
Used to describe distasteful actions or events
Same usage, adapted to British spelling
Context in Culinary Terms
Refers to unappetizing or bland food
Identically used in British English
Formal Documents
Used to describe morally or ethically dubious actions
Same application with British spelling
Compare with Definitions
Unsavory
Distasteful or disagreeable.
The crowd was shocked by the unsavory comments.
Unsavoury
Not respectable or decent.
The unsavoury character of the area was well-known.
Unsavory
Unpleasant to taste or smell.
The unsavory meal was quickly discarded.
Unsavoury
Unpleasant to taste or smell.
The unsavoury odour in the room was overwhelming.
Unsavory
Disagreeable and uncomfortable.
The unsavory weather made the hike less enjoyable.
Unsavoury
Morally offensive.
The unsavoury rumours about the celebrity were unfounded.
Unsavory
Morally offensive.
The unsavory reputation of the politician hindered his campaign.
Unsavoury
Disagreeable and uncomfortable.
The unsavoury conditions at the campsite were appalling.
Unsavory
Not respectable or decent.
The unsavory deal was quietly called off.
Unsavoury
Distasteful or disagreeable.
His unsavoury remarks were met with silence.
Unsavory
Distasteful or disagreeable
An unsavory task.
Unsavoury
Disagreeable to taste, smell, or look at
They looked at the scanty, unsavoury portions of food doled out to them
Unsavory
Not savory
An unsavory meal.
Unsavoury
(British spelling) unsavory
Unsavory
Morally offensive
An unsavory scandal.
Unsavoury
Morally offensive;
An unsavory reputation
An unsavory scandal
Unsavory
Not savory; without flavor.
Unsavoury
Not pleasing in odor or taste
Unsavory
Of bad taste; distasteful.
Unsavory
Making an activity undesirable.
Unsavory
Disreputable, not respectable, of questionable moral character.
His unsavory reputation as a mobster came back to haunt him when he ran for mayor of New York.
Unsavory
Morally offensive;
An unsavory reputation
An unsavory scandal
Unsavory
Not pleasing in odor or taste
Common Curiosities
What does "unsavoury" mean in British English?
"Unsavoury" in British English has the same meaning as "unsavory" in American English, including unpleasant or morally questionable qualities.
Are "unsavory" and "unsavoury" used differently in culinary contexts?
No, both terms are used to describe food that is unpleasant or unappetizing, just with different regional spellings.
What does "unsavory" mean in American English?
In American English, "unsavory" describes something morally offensive or unpleasant in taste.
How does the media use the term "unsavory" or "unsavoury"?
Media uses these terms to describe distasteful or morally questionable events or actions, adapting the spelling based on whether it is American or British English.
Are there synonyms for "unsavory" and "unsavoury"?
Yes, terms like distasteful, disagreeable, and offensive are synonyms for both.
In which contexts are "unsavory" or "unsavoury" most often used?
These terms are commonly used in discussing food, moral character, and media descriptions of events.
Can "unsavory" and "unsavoury" be used to describe people?
Yes, both terms can describe someone with questionable morals or who is unpleasant.
Is "unsavoury" accepted in American English?
"Unsavoury" is recognized in American English but is considered a British spelling.
Is there a difference in the pronunciation of "unsavory" and "unsavoury"?
The pronunciation of "unsavory" and "unsavoury" is generally the same, despite the spelling difference.
Can "unsavory" and "unsavoury" be used in formal writing?
Yes, both terms are acceptable in formal writing, respecting the regional spelling norms.
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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.
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.
