Which is Correct—Worldwide or World Wide?

We’ll go over the correct spelling of worldwide (or is it world wide or world-wide?), provide example sentences, and list synonyms you could use instead.

  • Worldwide
  • World wide
  • World-wide

Worldwide vs world wide vs world-wide

The correct spelling of this word is worldwide. It can function as both an adjective and adverb that means “extending or reaching throughout the world.”

Worldwide is a closed compound word, meaning there is no space or hyphen in between the words world and wide. This word is often misspelled as world wide or world-wide, but those are both incorrect.

Worldwide examples
BTS—the popular K-pop band—has fans worldwide.

The Royal Wedding attracted worldwide attention.

Governments worldwide are calling for peace.

Synonyms for worldwide

Synonyms of worldwide include global or globally.

Worldwide synonym examples
Feral pigeons can now be found worldwide.

Feral pigeons can now be found globally.

Other words that have similar meanings to worldwide are universal (or universally), far-reaching, widespread, large-scale, and wide-ranging.

Similar words examples
The company is planning a large-scale expansion into international markets.

Climate change is a universal concern that affects every nation.

How to remember the spelling of worldwide

Tip
Worldwide is one word.

Whether you’re a writer who desires a worldwide audience, a student, or someone who just aspires for error-free writing, you should use LanguageTool as your text editor. It supports several languages, will detect and correct spelling mistakes, fix grammar errors, and easily provide synonyms to enhance your writing.

Is this article helpful?
Gina Rancaño, BA

Gina holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, as well as a certificate in professional and public writing from Florida International University. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading.