Labor Or Labour – British English vs. American English

Ensuring consistency is key in academic writing to achieve clarity and logic. However, many students find it difficult to distinguish between British English vs. American English, especially when deciding on the correct spelling for words like “labor” or “labour.” This can potentially cause confusion. For a more profound insight into these two English variants, please read on.

“Labor” or “Labour”

The word “labor/labour” functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, the word has multiple meanings. It can refer to physical work, a group of manual workers, or the process of giving birth. The verb defines the action of working hard or struggling to do something despite working hard.

There is a slight spelling difference between British English and American English. In the former English variant, you’d write it “labour,” while the latter prefers the spelling “labor,” without a “u.” While both spellings are correct, your choice between them must depend on the regional or stylistic preferences.

In British English, the more common spelling is “labour” for both the noun and the verb. In American English, the more common spelling is “labor” for the noun and the verb.

Examples of using “Labor” and “Labour” as a verb

The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the verb “labor/labour” in British and American English.

Examples of using “labor” and “labour” as a noun

The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the noun “labor/labour” in British and American English.

“Labor” or “Labour” in the “-ed” form

The past tense or past participle form of “labor/labour” is “labored” and “laboured” in the respective English variant. Below, you’ll find an overview with examples.

• British English: Laboured
• American English: Labored

“Labor” or “Labour” in the “-ing” form

The “-ing” form of the verb, also called gerund and present participle, “labor/labour” is “laboring” and “labouring” for the respective English variant.

• British English: Labouring
• American English: Laboring

Exceptions

There is one exception where the British and Americans share one spelling. This is the case for the adjective “laborious,” which means “tedious” or “difficult.”