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Analyze vs. Analyse

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  Marius Alza  —  Grammar Tips
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Analyze vs. Analyse

"Analyze" and "analyse" are two other English words confusing people around with their spelling. They are pronounced in the very same way, yet a lot of people are never sure when to spell them with "z" or "s".

Does this small difference somehow change the meaning of these words? Let's make this clear once and forever!

Analyze vs. Analyse

The most common spelling differences in today's English vocabulary come from the slight variations between American and British English. Likewise does the pair "analyze" and "analyse". They are two verbs meaning the same thing, referring to the action of examining every detail of an element with special attention in order to study, understand or explain it.

While "analyze" is the US version, according to notorious dictionaries, British English prefers the "analyse" version, from which the noun "analysis" derivates as well. Yet, the two have the same signification and can, therefore, be replaced in any context.


When do we use "analyze"?

"Analyze" is defined as the US spelling of the verb "analyse". So, obviously, you can use "analyze" as a verb in any context where you would also use "analyse" and especially if you prefer to communicate in American English. In addition, some statistics show that "analyze" is more frequently used than the other spelling.

When do we use "analyse"?

Especially when you are writing in British English and are trying to be elegant, this spelling is preferred. Yet, the essence of your message won't change if you prefer the other form, so that in the end, it is totally up to you. Even though "analyse" might be less usual than the spelling with "z", it still remains correct according to official sources and especially preferred in the UK.


Conclusion

 Your own taste and preference is the only one that can determine whether you should use "analyze" or "analyse". This preference might vary according to the place where you were born and educated (USA or UK), according to what type of English (American or British) you use more or, of course, to what type of English speaker you are addressing your message. But in the end, both words have the same meaning and should not make you feel confused or insecure regarding their correctitude.

Analyze vs. Analyse

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2 Comments
  • timmythetoonlover
    timmythetoonlover
    The plural of analysis is analyses, which looks like the verb analyses, and that makes even less sense.
    LikeReply3 months ago
  • Peter Adler
    Peter Adler
    Rather, they are two different spellings of *the same* word.
    LikeReply4 years ago

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