What’s the Difference Between Defense and Defence?
Defence and defense are the same word spelled differently. Defence is the correct spelling if you’re writing in British English, whereas defense is the correct spelling if you’re writing in American English.
- They had no defence for the accusations. (British English)
- The defense played well, but the offense played horribly. (American English)
Is It Defence or Defense?
If you’re wondering which is the correct spelling when it comes to defense or defence, you’re not alone. In your defense, proper spelling depends on which English dialect you’re writing in.
In British English, defence is the correct spelling. If you’re writing in American English, it’s defense.
But what about other words that are derived from defense (or defence)? We’ll review these words below.
American English: Defense
In General American English, defense is spelled with an “s,” regardless of which prefix or suffix is added to it: indefensible, defensive, defenseless, defensible.
Mel Brooks is an American comedian and filmmaker, which is why “defense” is spelled with an “s” in the quote above.
British English: Defence
In British Standard English, defenceless and defenceslessly are written with a “c.”
However, if the suffix added starts with an “i,” then an “s” is used instead of a “c.”
Defense vs. Defence Recap
Remember: in American English, defense (and all other words derived from it) is always spelled with an “s.”
In British English (and other dialects influenced by it like Canadian, Australian, etc.), defence is always spelled with a “c,” except when the suffix begins with an “i.” In that case, use an “s.”
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