Have you ever paused while typing and wondered: Is it “binging” or “bingeing”? You’re not alone.
This small but confusing spelling question makes thousands of people search online every month. The word is common in everyday life—whether you’re talking about binge-watching your favorite Netflix series, binge-eating snacks, or binge-reading books. Yet, the spelling seems tricky.
The confusion happens because both binging and bingeing look correct, and both appear in writing across the internet.
People want to know which one is right, which one to use in formal settings, and whether British and American English treat the word differently. This article clears up the confusion with simple explanations, examples, comparisons, and professional advice so you never hesitate again when writing it.
Binging or Bingeing – Quick Answer
Both spellings are correct, but “bingeing” is traditionally preferred, while “binging” is increasingly common.
- Bingeing: Standard spelling in formal writing (ex: She is bingeing on chocolate).
- Binging: Informal, simplified version (ex: He spent the weekend binging Netflix shows).
The Origin of Bingeing
The word “binge” comes from the 19th-century English dialect meaning “a drinking spree.” Over time, it expanded to food, television, and other habits.
When forming the verb, English grammar rules add “-ing.” But since “binge” ends with an “e,” dropping it creates binging. Some writers felt this caused confusion (looking like the verb bing), so they kept the “e,” forming bingeing.
That’s why both versions exist.
British English vs American English Spelling
British and American English often differ in spelling (colour vs color, organise vs organize). With bingeing vs binging:
- British English prefers bingeing for clarity.
- American English often accepts both, though binging is more common online.
Comparison Table
| Region | Preferred Spelling | Example Sentence |
| British English | Bingeing | She is bingeing on biscuits after dinner. |
| American English | Binging / Bingeing | He spent hours binging Netflix shows. |
| Global Internet | Binging | TikTok users are binging short videos daily. |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- If writing for UK/Commonwealth readers → Use bingeing (seen as more correct and formal).
- If writing for US audiences → Use binging, especially in casual writing.
- If writing globally (online, blogs, social media) → Binging is more common and easier to read.
Tip: For academic, legal, or medical writing, stick with bingeing to maintain formality.
Common Mistakes with Binging or Bingeing
- Mixing tenses: Writing He was binge yesterday (❌) instead of He was bingeing/binging yesterday (✔).
- Using “binging” as a noun: His binging was fun (❌) → Correct: His binge was fun.
- Misspelling as “bingeeing” (❌).
- Dropping clarity in formal writing: Always prefer bingeing in academic/professional settings.
Binging or Bingeing in Everyday Examples
- Email: Sorry, I was bingeing on tasks and lost track of time.
- News: Streaming platforms encourage binging entire series in one sitting.
- Social Media: Currently binging Stranger Things!
- Formal Writing: Bingeing on alcohol is a serious public health concern.
Binging or Bingeing – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows that “binging” is searched and used far more often than “bingeing”, especially in the US, Canada, and social media platforms. In the UK, bingeing still holds ground in academic and professional writing.
Comparison Table – Popularity
| Spelling | Global Popularity | US Popularity | UK Popularity | Contexts Used |
| Binging | High | Very High | Medium | Internet, casual, social media |
| Bingeing | Medium | Low | High | Academic, medical, formal writing |
FAQs about Binging or Bingeing
Q1: Which is correct, binging or bingeing?
Both are correct, but bingeing is the traditional form.
Q2: Is “binging” wrong in grammar?
No, it is widely accepted, especially in American English and online use.
Q3: Do dictionaries list both forms?
Yes, Merriam-Webster and Oxford list both, though “bingeing” is marked as standard.
Q4: Which should I use in academic writing?
Always use bingeing for clarity and professionalism.
Q5: Why does “bingeing” keep the “e”?
To avoid confusion with binging, which looks like it comes from the word bing.
Q6: Which spelling is more common on social media?
Binging is more popular because it’s shorter and easier to type.
Q7: Is “binging Netflix” correct?
Yes, both binging Netflix and bingeing Netflix are correct.
Conclusion
The spelling confusion between binging and bingeing comes from English grammar rules and evolving usage. While bingeing is the traditional and formal spelling, binging has grown dominant in everyday online and casual writing, especially in American English.
If you’re writing an academic paper, a medical report, or a professional email, stick with bingeing. But if you’re tweeting about your weekend or writing for a global audience, binging is completely acceptable and often preferred.
Ultimately, your choice depends on audience and context. The good news? Neither is wrong—so you can feel confident whichever one you use.
