Vandalise vs. Vandalize — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 4, 2024
"Vandalise" is the British English spelling, used commonly in the UK and Commonwealth, whereas "vandalize" is the American English spelling, prevalent in the US.
Difference Between Vandalise and Vandalize
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Vandalise" follows the British English convention of using 'ise' at the end of verbs that derive from the Latin '-izare', while "vandalize" reflects the American preference for '-ize', mirroring the original Greek '-izein'.
In academic and professional writing in the UK, "vandalise" is standard, whereas "vandalize" is expected in American publications, demonstrating the regional linguistic standards.
Dictionaries in the UK, such as Oxford and Cambridge, list "vandalise" as the primary form, while American dictionaries like Merriam-Webster and American Heritage list "vandalize".
When it comes to digital word processing tools, "vandalise" might be flagged as incorrect in American English settings, while "vandalize" may be highlighted in British English tools, influencing spellcheck outcomes.
Usage trends show that "vandalise" is more commonly seen in British newspapers and literature, while "vandalize" appears more frequently in American texts, reflecting broader cultural preferences in language use.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Convention
British English
American English
Common in Regions
UK, Commonwealth
United States
Dictionary Listings
Oxford, Cambridge
Merriam-Webster, American Heritage
Spellcheck Behavior
Flagged in US settings
Flagged in UK settings
Prevalence in Media
British newspapers, literature
American newspapers, literature
Compare with Definitions
Vandalise
To deliberately destroy or damage public or private property.
The teenagers were caught trying to vandalise the school's walls.
Vandalize
To spoil or harm something out of spite or malice.
The park's statues were vandalized last weekend.
Vandalise
To ruin something irreparably.
Critics claim the new policy will vandalise the industry.
Vandalize
To willfully or maliciously destroy property.
Someone tried to vandalize the community center overnight.
Vandalise
To engage in destructive behavior.
The group planned to vandalise the downtown area during the protest.
Vandalize
To corrupt or debase something purposefully.
They used the program to vandalize the company's database.
Vandalise
To modify something unofficially and detrimentally.
He decided to vandalise the software with harmful code.
Vandalize
To cause deliberate deterioration.
The billboards were vandalized with spray paint.
Vandalise
To deface artwork or landmarks.
Tourists were fined for attempting to vandalise ancient ruins.
Vandalize
To perform acts of vandalism.
Teens were caught trying to vandalize school property.
Vandalise
To needlessly destroy or deface other people’s property or public property; to commit vandalism.
Vandalize
To damage or destroy (another's property) willfully or maliciously.
Vandalise
Destroy wantonly, as through acts of vandalism;
Vandalize the park
Vandalize
Standard spelling of vandalise
Vandalize
Destroy wantonly, as through acts of vandalism;
Vandalize the park
Common Curiosities
Will using "vandalize" in the UK affect the perception of my writing?
Using "vandalize" in the UK may suggest American influences or be seen as an error in formal writing.
How do English learners know which spelling to use?
English learners should follow the convention of the English variant they are studying; British for "vandalise" and American for "vandalize".
Do English exams differentiate between American and British spellings like "vandalise" and "vandalize"?
Most English proficiency exams accept both British and American spellings, though it's best to consistently use one style.
Can using the wrong variant of a word like "vandalize" in a different English-speaking country affect SEO?
Yes, search engine optimization can be influenced by regional spelling differences, impacting how content is found and its relevance in search results.
Is "vandalise" accepted in American English?
While not standard, "vandalise" can be understood in American English but is generally considered incorrect.
What advice would you give to someone writing for a global audience?
For a global audience, it may be beneficial to choose one English variant and use it consistently throughout the text.
What impact does the internet have on the use of "vandalise" and "vandalize"?
Global communication on the internet is blending linguistic differences, making both forms more universally recognized.
What should non-native speakers focus on when choosing between "vandalise" and "vandalize"?
Non-native speakers should consider the primary audience's region of their content to choose the appropriate spelling variant.
Are there dictionaries that list both "vandalise" and "vandalize"?
Comprehensive English dictionaries, especially international editions, often list both variants explaining their usage.
Why do British and American English have different spellings for the same words?
Historical, cultural, and linguistic developments have led to variations in spelling between British and American English.
How do publishers handle these differences in spellings?
Publishers typically adhere to the linguistic preferences of their target audience, using the appropriate regional spelling.
Are there any software tools that convert American to British spellings and vice versa?
Yes, some word processors and specialized software can convert American spellings to British and vice versa, including "vandalize" to "vandalise".
Do certain industries prefer one spelling over the other?
Industries based in specific regions might prefer the local spelling variant; for instance, British media would use "vandalise."
Are there any notable exceptions where one country might use the other's spelling variant?
In professional or academic contexts, sometimes terms are standardized (like in legal or technical language) regardless of regional differences, but this is rare for general vocabulary like "vandalise/vandalize."
How do educational systems in countries using English as a second language teach these differences?
Such educational systems often choose either British or American English as the teaching standard and stick to one set of spelling rules.
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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
Maham Liaqat
