People often search “totaling or totalling” because both spellings look correct and are widely used in writing, emails, blogs, news, and online content. Some people write totaling, while others write totalling, and this creates confusion for students, writers, bloggers, businesses, and professionals who want to use the correct spelling.
The confusion happens because this is not a grammar issue—it is a spelling difference based on regional English rules. American English and British English follow different spelling systems, which is why both forms exist.
Understanding the difference helps you write correctly, stay consistent, and look professional. This guide explains the rule in the simplest way possible.
You’ll learn the quick answer, the origin of both spellings, British vs American spelling rules, which spelling to use, common mistakes, real-life examples, usage trends, and professional advice. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use totaling and when to use totalling—with confidence.
Totaling or Totalling – Quick Answer
Short answer: Both spellings are correct. The difference depends on the type of English you use.
- Totaling → American English
- Totalling → British English
Examples:
- US: “She is totaling the expenses.”
- UK: “She is totalling the expenses.”
The Origin of Totaling or Totalling
The word total comes from Latin “totalis”, meaning whole or complete.
When English adds -ing to verbs, spelling rules change based on regional systems:
- American English usually keeps one L → totaling
- British English often doubles the L → totalling
This is why both spellings developed and are still correct today.
British English vs American English Spelling
| Type | Spelling | Example |
|---|---|---|
| American English | totaling | “He is totaling the bill.” |
| British English | totalling | “He is totalling the bill.” |
| Canadian English | totalling | “She is totalling the costs.” |
| Australian English | totalling | “They are totalling the score.” |
| Global English | totalling | Common in UK/Commonwealth |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
🇺🇸 US audience:
Use totaling
🇬🇧 UK/Commonwealth:
Use totalling
🌍 Global audience:
Totalling is more widely accepted
Simple rule:
- American English → totaling
- British English → totalling
Common Mistakes with Totaling or Totalling
❌ Thinking one spelling is wrong
✔ Both are correct
❌ Mixing spellings in one document
✔ Stay consistent
❌ Using US spelling in UK content
✔ Follow regional rules
Totaling or Totalling in Everyday Examples
Email:
“I am totaling the expenses now.” (US)
News:
“The damage is totalling millions of pounds.” (UK)
Social Media:
“Just totaling my shopping bill.”
Formal Writing:
“The accountant is totalling/totalling the financial report.”
Totaling or Totalling – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search patterns show:
- Totaling is mostly searched in the United States
- Totalling is popular in the UK, Canada, and Australia
- Global English prefers totalling
This shows usage depends on location and audience.
Comparison Table
| Spelling | English Type | Region | Formal |
| totaling | American English | USA | ✅ |
| totalling | British English | UK/Commonwealth | ✅ |
FAQs
1. Is totaling correct?
Yes. It is correct in American English.
2. Is totalling correct?
Yes. It is correct in British English.
3. Which spelling is better?
It depends on your audience.
4. Which is correct for SEO?
Use the spelling your audience searches.
5. Can I use both?
Not in the same article. Stay consistent.
6. Is this a grammar rule?
No. It is a spelling rule.
Conclusion
The confusion between totaling or totalling exists because of regional spelling rules, not grammar mistakes. Both spellings are correct, but they belong to different types of English. Totaling is used in American English, while totalling is used in British and Commonwealth English.
If you are writing for a US audience, use totaling. If you are writing for a UK, Canadian, Australian, or global audience, use totalling. The key is consistency and audience awareness.
Once you understand this simple rule, you’ll never be confused about totaling vs totalling again. Choose the right spelling, stay consistent, and write with confidence.
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Cormac McCarthy is a renowned writer and metaphors & similes expert at metaphre, where he transforms language into vivid, evocative imagery.
With a focus on expressive writing and impactful storytelling, Cormac helps readers master the art of language and the power of words.
