Maintaining clear and logical expression in academic writing requires consistent use of language. However, students frequently find it difficult to distinguish between British English vs. American English, particularly with spelling variations like “gramme” in British English and “gram” in American English. This distinction can be especially tough for non-native English speakers, so for a better grasp of these differences, read on.
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“Gramme” or “gram”
The word “gramme/gram” refers to a unit of mass in the metric system, equal to one-thousandth of a kilogram. It is a noun, and as such, does not have a tense like verbs do. Regarding the spelling variations, “gramme” is the traditional spelling used in British English, while “gram” is the standard spelling in American English.
In terms of other notations or recommendations, while “gramme” is occasionally seen in older British texts, contemporary British usage generally prefers “gram,” aligning with the international scientific standard and simplifying educational and professional communication globally. Therefore, “gram” is increasingly used and recommended in both American and British English contexts, especially in scientific and educational materials.
British English
gram
gramme (archaic)
American English
gram
As seen above, “gramme” is an archaic term used in British English, while “gram” is the norm in British as well as American English today.
Note: Instead of using the archaic term “gramme,” it is recommended to use “gram” regardless of the English variant.
Examples of using “gramme” and “gram” as a noun
The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the noun “gramme/gram” in British and American English.
- British English: Gram
- American English: Gram
FAQs
“Gram/gramme” means a unit of weight equal to one thousandth of a kilogram. However, the spelling “gramme” is an archaic term and is not being used today.
In English, the plural form is written as “grams” in British and American English. “Grammes” used to be the plural form in British English but is not used today.
“Gramm” does not have a recognized meaning in English; it appears to be a misspelling.
“Gram” is correct as a unit of weight, and “grammage” is a correct term referring to the mass or density of paper, expressed in grams per square meter.
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