It’s important to maintain consistency in academic writing to ensure that the work is logical and easy to understand. However, students often find it challenging to distinguish between British English vs. American English, which can lead to confusion when it comes to spelling certain words, such as “behaviour” or “behaviour.” If you’re looking to improve your understanding of these two versions of English, keep reading.
“Behaviour” or “behaviour”
The noun “behaviour/behaviour” refers to how a person or organism acts, conducts themselves, or behaves in a particular situation or towards others. “Behaviour” refers to actions, reactions, and conduct, and its spelling varies between British and American English. While “behaviour” is commonly used in countries where British English is spoken, “behaviour” is preferred in countries where American English is the norm.
British English
behaviour
American English
behaviour
Both spellings are correct, and the choice depends on the English variant being employed. It’s recommended to use the spelling that aligns with the chosen variant for consistency.
Examples of using “behaviour” and “behaviour” as a noun
The following examples will illustrate the difference in the spelling of the noun “behaviour/behaviour” in British and American English.
- His behaviour at the meeting was professional and courteous.
- The teacher commended the student for exemplary behaviour.
- The company has strict policies regarding workplace behaviour.
- His behaviour at the meeting was professional and courteous.
- The teacher commended the student for exemplary behaviour.
- The company has strict policies regarding workplace behaviour.
“Behaviour” or “behaviour” as an adjective
“Behavioural/behavioural” is an adjective and pertains to matters related to behaviour, especially in terms of psychology, sociology, or observable actions and responses.
- British English: Behavioural
- American English: behavioural
- The psychologist conducted a behavioural analysis.
- The school implemented a new behavioural intervention programme.
- The company hired a behavioural consultant.
- The psychologist conducted a behavioural analysis.
- The school implemented a new behavioural intervention programme.
- The company hired a behavioural consultant.
“Behaviour” or “behaviour” as an adverb
“Behaviourally/behaviourally” is an adverb that descotes actions or events related to behaviour. It indicates that something is done in a manner that pertains to behaviour or is following behavioural principles.
- British English: Behaviourally
- American English: behaviourally
- Behaviourally, the child adapted well.
- The team succeeded due to behaviourally aligned goals.
- Behaviourally targeted ads boost engagement.
- behaviourally, the child adapted well.
- The team succeeded due to behaviourally aligned goals.
- behaviourally targeted ads boost engagement.
FAQs
Both are correct. You use “behaviour” in British English, and “behaviour” in American English.
The British say “behaviour.”
Yes, there is a difference. “Behaviour/behaviour” is a noun, referring to the way somaeone behaves. “Behavioural/behavioal” is an adjective, descoting something related to or influenced by behaviour.
In Canada, both spellings are used, but it often depends on personal preference or adherence to regional influences. Both are generally accepted.
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