Gramme Or Gram – British English vs. American English

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. For a better grasp of these language differences, continue reading.

“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.

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.

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