Have you ever written something like, “The conditions were appalling,” only to have that little red squiggly line pop up under the word?
Or maybe you’ve seen both “appall” and “appal” used and wondered which one was right. Don’t worry, it’s a surprisingly common point of confusion!
So, let’s set the record straight and break down this spelling showdown.
The Main Scoop: It’s a Regional Thing
Here’s the deal: both “appall” and “appal” are correct spellings of the verb meaning “to horrify,” “disgust,” or “shock.” The difference is all about where you live.
“Appall” with the double “l” is the standard spelling in British English, Australian English, and most other English-speaking countries.
On the other hand, “appal” with the single “l” is the preferred version across the pond in American English.
Why the Spelling Difference: “Appall” vs. “Appal”
Like a lot of those quirky English spelling differences, the “appall” vs. “appal” situation comes down to history and regional preferences.
The word has its roots in French and Latin.
Over time, both spellings became widely used and accepted. Eventually, British English maintained the traditional double “l” spelling, while American English streamlined it to a single “l”.
How to Choose the Right Spelling
The simplest way to decide between “appall” and “appal” is to consider your audience:
- Location, location! If you’re writing for folks in the UK, Canada, Australia, etc., go with the classic “appall” spelling. If you’re mainly communicating with an American audience, stick with “appal”.
- Think about the tone: For a more formal piece of writing (like a report or email to a professor), you might want to stick with the more traditional “appall” spelling regardless of where you live. It can give the impression of polish and attention to detail.
Confused about “appall” vs. “appal”? Here’s a quick guide:
- American English: Use “appal” (no extra “l”).
- British English (and elsewhere): Stick with “appall”.
- Formal writing: “Appall” is a safer choice for a professional tone.
- Not sure? Check a dictionary online for quick help.
Don’t stress too much – either spelling will be understood!
The Big Picture
Language is always evolving, and sometimes, there’s more than one “right” way to do something. In the grand scheme of things, whether you choose “appall” or “appal,” people will understand what you mean.
Sometimes spelling variations are just that – variations! However, if you’re really aiming to impress or want to play it safe, knowing the regional preferences will give you an edge.
Bonus: “Appalled” and “Appalling”
Just to make things a little more interesting, keep in mind that when you use these words as adjectives, the double “l” always comes back!
So, regardless of whether you usually write “appal” or “appall,” you’ll want to use “appalled” and “appalling.” For example, “I was appalled by the news.”
