Every night, millions of people send messages, post on social media, or write notes ending with the phrase “goodnight” or “good night.” But which spelling is correct? This question leads many to search for “goodnight or good night” because both versions look right, yet they are not always interchangeable.
The confusion happens because “good night” is a two-word phrase, while “goodnight” is often used as a single word. Some dictionaries accept both, but their meaning and usage change depending on context. Using the wrong one can make writing look unprofessional or casual in the wrong setting.
This article explains the difference between “goodnight” and “good night,” where each came from, how British and American English treat them, and when you should use one over the other. By the end, you will know the correct spelling for emails, social posts, or formal writing, and never hesitate again when typing your bedtime goodbye.
Goodnight or Good Night – Quick Answer
- Good night (two words) → Standard phrase used when telling someone to have a pleasant night.
- Goodnight (one word) → Used more casually as a farewell or in creative writing, like book titles.
👉 Example:
- “I’ll call you tomorrow. Good night!” ✅
- “Goodnight, Moon” (book title) ✅
Both forms exist, but “good night” is more correct in formal writing.
The Origin of Goodnight vs Good Night
The phrase “good night” comes from Middle English (14th century), where “good” and “night” were two separate words. Over time, writers began merging them into “goodnight” for stylistic and poetic reasons.
- Good night remained the standard form in dictionaries.
- Goodnight became common in greetings, songs, and literature.
The difference is less about meaning and more about grammar and tradition.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English accept the two versions, but preferences vary.
| Usage | British English | American English | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everyday phrase | Good night | Good night | Preferred in both regions |
| Casual farewell | Goodnight (informal) | Goodnight (informal) | Seen in texts and greetings |
| Literature/Title | Goodnight (e.g., Goodnight Mr. Tom) | Goodnight (e.g., Goodnight Moon) | Popular in book titles |
So, neither version is “wrong,” but “good night” is the safer, universal choice.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Formal Writing (emails, letters, essays): Use good night.
- Casual Writing (texts, posts, notes): Either works, but “goodnight” feels warmer.
- Book Titles, Songs, Art: “Goodnight” is more common stylistically.
- Global Audience: Stick with “good night” for clarity.
👉 Rule of thumb: If in doubt, choose good night.
Common Mistakes with Goodnight vs Good Night
- Using “goodnight” in formal essays → Too informal.
- Mixing both in the same text → Looks inconsistent.
- Assuming one is British and the other American → Not true; both are used in both regions.
- Capitalizing randomly → Only capitalize at the start of a sentence or in a title.
Goodnight or Good Night in Everyday Examples
- Emails: “Thank you for your help today. Good night.”
- Social Media: “Goodnight, everyone! 🌙✨”
- News Headlines: “City Lights Go Out: Good Night to the Festival”
- Books/Songs: Goodnight Moon, Goodnight My Love
Usage depends on tone: formal = “good night,” casual/creative = “goodnight.”
Goodnight vs Good Night – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows:
- “Good night” is searched more often worldwide.
- “Goodnight” spikes around bedtime hours, especially in social media posts.
- By country: US, UK, Canada, and Australia all prefer “good night” in professional use.
| Country | Most Popular | Casual Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Good night | Goodnight | Formal vs texts |
| UK | Good night | Goodnight | Same as US |
| Canada | Good night | Goodnight | Similar pattern |
| Australia | Good night | Goodnight | Both accepted |
FAQs
1. Is “goodnight” one word or two?
Both exist, but “good night” is correct in most cases.
2. Is “goodnight” grammatically correct?
Yes, but it’s more informal and often used in greetings or titles.
3. Do British and American English use different forms?
No. Both regions accept both versions.
4. Can I use “goodnight” in an essay?
No. Use “good night” in formal academic or business writing.
5. Why do books use “goodnight” in titles?
One-word form looks stylistic, catchy, and works better for creative use.
6. Which is more popular on social media?
“Goodnight” is more common in tweets, posts, and casual texts.
7. Is “good night” outdated?
No. It is the standard and correct form for everyday and professional use.
Conclusion
The debate over “goodnight or good night” is simple once you know the rule. The two-word form “good night” is the standard, correct spelling for formal communication, while “goodnight” is widely accepted in casual messages, literature, and titles.
Both versions are understood globally, but consistency matters. For emails, reports, or schoolwork, always choose good night. For friendly chats, bedtime wishes, or creative writing, “goodnight” adds warmth.
In short: “Good night” is correct everywhere; “goodnight” is optional in casual and creative use. With this clarity, you can write confidently and never second-guess your spelling again.
