Both “judgment” and “judgement” are correct, but their usage can depend on regional and legal preferences.
Neither spelling is “wrong,” so the right choice depends on your audience and the type of writing.
This guide breaks down exactly when to use each spelling.
What Does “Judgment” Mean?
Judgment (without the “e”) is the standard and only correct spelling in American English. It is also the preferred spelling in legal contexts globally, including in British legal writing.
Example: “The court issued its final judgment.”
“Judgment” in Different Writing Contexts
What Does “Judgement” Mean?
Judgement (with the “e”) is the traditional and standard spelling in British English and other Commonwealth variants for general, non-legal use.
Example: “She showed excellent judgement in a difficult situation.”
“Judgement” in Different Writing Contexts
Judgment vs Judgement — Quick Reference
Spelling Differences
Judgment is the standard and only correct spelling in American English, and it’s also the preferred spelling in legal contexts globally.
Judgement is the traditional, standard spelling in British English and other Commonwealth variants, but only for general, non-legal use.
The Reddit Debate
Opinions on Reddit are mixed on this topic, with some users surprised by the omission of the “e” in American English, while others confirm it has long been standard practice.
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Phrases
Synonyms for judgment/judgement: opinion, verdict, assessment, evaluation, discernment.
Antonyms: indecision, confusion, misjudgment.
Related phrases: “good judgment” (sound decision-making), “error in judgment” (a mistaken decision), “pass judgment” (to form or state an opinion, often critically).
Memory Tip
The easiest way to remember which spelling fits:
Judgment — think “legal and American.” Courts everywhere, including in the UK, drop the “e” for official rulings.
Judgement — think “everyday British.” The extra “e” matches other British spellings for general, non-legal writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which one is correct, judgment or judgement?
Both are correct. Judgment is standard in American English and in legal writing worldwide, while judgement is standard in British English for general, non-legal use.
Why is the e dropped in judgment?
American English generally favors shorter spellings, and judgment follows that pattern, dropping the silent “e” that British English keeps.
Is it judgement or judgment in the UK?
In the UK, judgement is standard for general writing, though judgment (without the “e”) is used specifically in legal contexts, even in British courts.
Is it judgement or judgment in Australia?
In Australia, judgement is the common spelling for everyday use, following British convention, while judgment appears in legal writing.
What does “good judgment” mean?
Good judgment means the ability to make sound, sensible decisions, especially in difficult or uncertain situations.
Is judging and judgment the same?
No. Judging is the present participle of the verb “to judge,” while judgment (or judgement) is the noun describing the decision or opinion itself.
Do Americans spell judgment?
Yes. Americans spell it judgment, without the “e,” which is the standard and only accepted spelling in American English.
What is another word for “judgment”?
Common alternatives include opinion, verdict, assessment, and evaluation, depending on context.
What are the four types of judgments?
In general reasoning, judgments are often categorized as descriptive, evaluative, prescriptive, and predictive, depending on what kind of conclusion is being made.
Conclusion
Judgment and judgement mean exactly the same thing — the spelling depends on region and context. Use judgment for American writing and all legal documents, and judgement for general British, Australian, or Commonwealth writing.
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