English is a global language used in multiple regions worldwide, and it uses different accents for speaking and pronouncing the same words. These types of words often confuse even professional writers. One such pair of confusing words is judgment and judgement. Let’s check out how they are different.
What is the Meaning of Judgement and Judgment?
Judgment and judgement are two different spellings of the same noun. It can be pronounced as ‘juhj·muhnt’. Both have the same meaning of forming an opinion, the ability to form an opinion, and the opinion itself. It also relates to the decision of a judge or legal court to make up one’s mind about something and any punishment or condemnation. Here are some examples based on their actual meanings:
- He was known for his wisdom and excellent judgment.
- The jury delivered their judgement after a long deliberation.
- The criminal received a harsh judgement for his actions.
- The art critic offered a scathing judgement of the new exhibition.
- The manager used her sound judgement to choose the best candidate for the role.
The spelling varies based on whether you’re writing in Australian, UK, or US English.
- In US English, “judgment” (no “e”) is the only correct spelling.
- In UK and Australian English, “judgement” (with an “e”) is standard, but “judgment” is used in legal contexts.
Difference Between Judgment and Judgement
The words ‘judgement’ and ‘judgment’ have been widely used for many centuries. Both words have the same meaning but are used in different regions. Some regions are strict about using a specific word, but others allow the word to be used according to the context.
Likewise, Judgement with additional ‘e’ is a standard British English spelling used in the UK and other countries like Australia. British English may use it depending on the context. While the word judgment without ‘e’ is the only acceptable spelling in US English.
| Judgment | Judgement | |
| Spelling | US | UK and Australia |
| Pronunciation | Juhj·muhnt | Juhj·muhnt |
| Meaning | Refers to the process of forming an opinion or decision. | Also refers to the process of forming an opinion or decision. |
| Examples | The judge delivered her final judgment in the case. | She relied on her own moral judgement in the situation. |
| His judgment about the matter was questioned by many. | The committee's judgement was based on careful analysis. |
Judgment or Judgement – The Right Word to Use
The first thing to be clear about ‘judgement’ and ‘judgment’ is the right spelling to use. Both words are correct. In US English, ‘judgment’ without ‘e’ is preferable because it is concise and widely accepted in academic writing. So, always choose ‘judgment’ while writing if you aim for consistency and adherence in American English.
Now, you might wonder if there is any difference or special situation in which to use ‘judgement’ and ‘judgment’. But you do not need to worry because both words only differ in spelling and have the same meaning used in different regions of the world. The spelling of judgment and judgements is based on the region and the context, like in the US and other variants of the world like Australia.
How to Use Judgment and Judgement in Sentences
| Judgment | Judgement |
| The judge's judgment was fair and impartial. | She trusted her own judgement when making the decision. |
| It's not wise to pass judgment without knowing the facts. | The moral judgement of the society has shifted over time. |
| His business judgment led to a successful venture. | The committee reached a collective judgement on the matter. |
| He didn't want to appear judgmental in front of his colleagues. | Being too judgemental can strain relationships. |
| Using good judgment, she avoided a potential disaster. | The teacher's judgement of the student's behaviour was positive. |
| Legal judgments are based on evidence and precedent. | The jury’s judgement was unanimous towards the case. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Judgment and judgment are both correct. They have the same meaning but different spellings depending on the region. The US English prefers only ‘judgment,’ while ‘judgment’ is used in the UK, Australia, and other world regions.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, judgment refers to the process of making an opinion or decision after careful consideration. This word encompasses both rationale and subjective evaluation.
In British English, judgment is spelt with the additional ‘e’ as ‘judgment’. It maintains consistency by ending with ‘ment’, which aligns with Traditional British conventions. However, both ‘judgment’ and ‘judgment’ spellings are correct in UK English.
Dropping ‘e’ in judgment refers to the American English spellings which aim for phonetic consistency. This change was influenced by Noah Webster’s standardisation of American English spelling in the early 19th century to ensure efficiency and uniformity in language usage.
