If you’ve ever typed “offence” and then wondered if it should actually be “offense,” you’re not alone.
This is one of the most searched spelling questions in English. People often ask “Which one is correct – offence or offense?”
The confusion comes from different English spelling rules around the world, especially between British and American English.
This article gives you a clear and simple explanation, so you never second-guess your spelling again.
You’ll learn when to use each version, their origin, real-world examples, Google Trends data, and common mistakes people make.
Whether you’re writing an academic essay, a legal document, a social media post, or an email, knowing the difference will make your writing look more professional.
Let’s solve the confusion once and for all in an easy way.
Offence vs Offense – Quick Answer
| Word | Correct Where | Example |
| offence | UK, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, India | “It is a criminal offence.” |
| offense | United States | “He took offense at the remark.” |
✅ Both spellings are correct.
The difference is regional spelling – not meaning.
The Origin of Offence vs Offense
The words offence/offense come from the Latin word “offensa”, meaning an attack or wrongdoing. The words entered English from Old French in the 13th century.
- British English kept the French-style spelling ending in -ence.
- American English simplified many spellings to -ense.
That’s why we see spelling pairs like:
- defence / defense
- licence / license
- pretence / pretense
- offence / offense
British English vs American English Spelling
British English uses -ence, while American English uses -ense.
| Word in British English | Word in American English |
| offence | offense |
| defence | defense |
| licence | license |
| pretence | pretense |
Rule:
- If your readers are in the UK or Commonwealth, use offence.
- If your audience is in the US, use offense.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
| Audience | Recommended Spelling |
| USA readers | offense |
| UK/Commonwealth readers | offence |
| Academic writing | Match the style guide (APA = US spelling, Oxford = UK spelling) |
| Global blog or website | Use offense (offence) first mention, then be consistent |
📌 Tip: Pick one style and stay consistent in your document.
Common Mistakes with Offence vs Offense
Here are frequent errors and how to fix them:
| Mistake | Correct Version |
| He committed an offense in London. | He committed an offence in London. |
| That is a legal offence in the US. | That is a legal offense in the US. |
| Do not take offence (US audience). | Do not take offense (US audience). |
❗ Note: The earlier heading mistakenly mentioned corporate bonds vs government bonds. Ignore that — this section is about common spelling mistakes, as requested.
Offence vs Offense in Everyday Examples
Emails
- British: “No offence, but I disagree.”
- American: “No offense, but I disagree.”
News
- BBC: “He was charged with a driving offence.”
- CNN: “He was arrested for a federal offense.”
Social Media
- “No offense but that haircut is wild.” (US)
- “No offence mate, just being honest.” (UK)
Formal Writing
- “The act is considered a punishable offence/offense under law.”
Offence vs Offense – Google Trends & Usage Data
According to Google Trends:
- “offense” is most popular in the USA and Philippines.
- “offence” is most popular in UK, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, India, South Africa.
People search this topic due to:
✔ Grammar confusion
✔ Academic writing rules
✔ Legal writing precision
✔ Regional spelling differences
Comparison Table (Keyword Variations)
| Keyword | Region | Meaning |
| offence | UK spelling | Wrongdoing, insult, crime |
| offense | US spelling | Wrongdoing, insult, crime |
| offense meaning | Global | Definition |
| no offense | US phrase | Not meant to insult |
| no offence | UK phrase | Not meant to insult |
FAQs
1. Which is correct: offense or offence?
Both are correct. Use offense in US English and offence in UK English.
2. Is “no offense” rude?
It can be, depending on tone. It often comes before criticism.
3. Do they have the same meaning?
Yes. Same meaning, only spelling differs.
4. Which spelling is used in law?
Use offence for UK/Commonwealth law, offense for US law.
5. Can I use both spellings together?
Avoid mixing. Be consistent with one spelling.
6. Is offence a verb?
No. The verb form is offend, not offence/offense.
7. Which spelling is more common globally?
Offense is more common online, but offence is widely used in the Commonwealth.
Conclusion
The grammar debate around “offence vs offense” is simple to solve when you understand that it is not a difference in meaning but a difference in spelling preference based on region. If you are writing for a British or Commonwealth audience, use offence. If your readers are in the United States, choose offense. Both spellings are widely accepted in professional and legal writing as long as your usage is consistent and fits your audience.
When in doubt, think about your reader’s location or your style guide. Academic writers may follow APA (US spelling), while international companies may choose one standard for branding. For websites or global content, it’s okay to include both versions once, like “offense (offence)”, and then stick to one throughout the article.
Spelling should not stop your writing flow. Now that you know the difference, you can write confidently and correctly every time.
Discover More Articles:
- 101+Chilli or Chili Which Spelling Is Correct and When Should You Use It? 2026
- 101+Inquire vs Enquire What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use? 2026
- 101+Manuel or Manual Which Spelling Is Correct and When to Use It? 2026
- 101+Parent’s or Parents Correct Usage, Meaning, and Grammar Rules For 2026
