If you have ever come across the words possum and opossum, you may have wondered whether they are the same animal, two different animals, or simply a spelling error.
Many people search for “possum vs opossum” because the terms are confusing, especially when used in different countries. While both spellings refer to marsupials, their usage depends heavily on geography, history, and language rules.
In the United States, “opossum” is the formal spelling, while “possum” is often used informally. Meanwhile, in Australia and other Commonwealth countries, “possum” refers to an entirely different species.
This article clears up the confusion by explaining the origin of both words, the differences in British and American spelling, and how to choose the correct term for your audience. We’ll also look at common mistakes, everyday examples, and actual usage trends worldwide. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use possum and when to use opossum.
Possum vs Opossum – Quick Answer
- Opossum → Correct term for the marsupial native to North America.
- Possum → Informal shortening of opossum in the U.S., but in Australia and New Zealand, it refers to a different animal.
Example:
- “An opossum was spotted in my backyard” (correct in U.S. English).
- “An Australian possum is climbing the tree” (different species).
The Origin of Possum vs Opossum
The word opossum comes from the Powhatan language (Algonquian family) in the 1600s, meaning “white dog-like animal.” Early settlers in North America adopted the term. Over time, the initial “o” was often dropped in casual speech, leading to the shorter form possum.
In the late 18th century, when European explorers reached Australia, they used the familiar word possum to describe local tree-dwelling marsupials, even though they were unrelated to American opossums. This dual use is the root of the confusion we see today.
British English vs American English Spelling
In American English:
- Opossum is the standard spelling.
- Possum is accepted informally.
In British English & Commonwealth English:
- Possum refers to the Australian/New Zealand species.
- Opossum is rarely used.
Comparison Table
| Region | Formal Term | Informal/Common Term | Refers To |
| United States | Opossum | Possum | North American marsupial |
| Australia/NZ | Possum | — | Australian marsupial (different species) |
| UK/Commonwealth | Possum | — | Australian/New Zealand usage only |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Writing for U.S. readers → Use opossum in formal writing (essays, news, research). Use possum in casual settings.
- Writing for UK/Commonwealth readers → Use possum to describe the Australian/New Zealand species.
- Writing for an international audience → Clarify the context. Example: “The North American opossum” or “The Australian possum.”
Common Mistakes with Possum vs Opossum
- Using possum for American wildlife in academic or scientific writing.
- Assuming Australian possums and American opossums are the same animal.
- Thinking opossum is a typo instead of the original word.
- Switching between both spellings in the same document without consistency.
- Using opossum in informal contexts where readers expect possum.
Possum vs Opossum in Everyday Examples
- Email: “I found an opossum near the trash cans last night.”
- News headline: “Australian possum population rises in city suburbs.”
- Social media post: “Look at this cute little possum hanging in the tree!”
- Formal writing: “The Virginia opossum is the only marsupial native to North America.”
Possum vs Opossum – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends data shows:
- “Possum” is more searched in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
- “Opossum” dominates in the United States, especially in academic or wildlife contexts.
- Globally, possum is more common in casual online use because it is shorter and easier to spell.
Comparison Table – Possum vs Opossum
| Feature | Possum | Opossum |
| Region of Use | Australia, NZ, Informal US | United States (formal) |
| Scientific Accuracy | Australian species only | North American marsupial |
| Formal Writing | Not preferred in U.S. | Standard in U.S. |
| Informal Conversation | Common worldwide | Less common |
| Example Sentence | “A possum climbed the roof.” | “An opossum was seen at night.” |
FAQs about Possum vs Opossum
1. Are possums and opossums the same animal?
No. Opossums are native to North America, while possums are native to Australia and New Zealand.
2. Why does the word opossum start with an “o”?
It comes from the Powhatan language. The “o” was often dropped in casual English, creating the word possum.
3. Is it wrong to say possum in the U.S.?
Not wrong in casual speech, but in formal writing, opossum is preferred.
4. Do Australians ever say opossum?
No, Australians only use possum to describe their native animals.
5. Which word is more common online?
Globally, possum is more common, but opossum is correct in U.S. academic or scientific contexts.
6. Do opossums and possums look alike?
They look similar but are unrelated species. Opossums are gray with a hairless tail, while Australian possums are furry with bushy tails.
7. Should I use possum or opossum in professional writing?
Use opossum for U.S. contexts and possum for Australian or UK contexts.
Conclusion
The debate of possum vs opossum comes down to geography, history, and audience. While the words are connected, they refer to different animals depending on where you are. In the United States, opossum is the correct formal spelling, though possum is common in casual talk. In Australia and New Zealand, however, possum refers to an entirely different species of marsupial.
If you are writing for an American academic or professional audience, always choose opossum. If you are addressing a UK or Commonwealth audience, stick with possum. For a global audience, be clear by specifying “North American opossum” or “Australian possum.”
By understanding the differences and choosing the right word for your readers, you can avoid confusion and write with clarity and accuracy.
