If you’ve ever typed an email and paused at the word “til or till,” you’re not alone
. Many English learners and even native speakers wonder which spelling is correct, where each comes from, and whether they mean the same thing.
Some think one is slang, others think one is a typo, and some even confuse “til” with “’til” (with an apostrophe).
The truth is, both forms appear in writing, but their history, usage, and acceptance depend on context.
Searchers often want a quick, reliable answer—especially students, professionals writing emails, and people creating online content.
Understanding the difference clears up confusion, helps avoid embarrassing grammar mistakes, and makes your writing look polished and professional.
This article explains the exact meaning of “til or till”, their origins, how British and American English treat them, and when to use which spelling.
By the end, you’ll know the right choice for your audience every single time.
Til or Till – Quick Answer
Both “till” and “’til” (with an apostrophe) can mean “until.”
- ✅ Correct: I will wait till you arrive.
- ✅ Correct (informal): I’ll wait ’til you arrive.
- ❌ Incorrect: I will wait til you arrive. (without the apostrophe, most style guides mark this as wrong)
“Till” is the older, standard spelling. “’Til” is a shortened form of “until,” used mostly in informal writing.
The Origin of Til or Till
The word “till” is very old—used in English since the 9th century, even before “until.” Over time, writers started dropping the “un-” prefix in casual speech, which led to “’til” (with an apostrophe) as a modern abbreviation.
The confusion arises because many assume “till” is short for “until,” but historically, that’s not true. “Till” came first.
So:
- Till = original word
- Until = later form (un + till)
- ’Til = modern contraction
British English vs American English Spelling
In spelling preferences, both British English and American English widely accept “till.” The contraction “’til” is more common in the U.S., especially in informal writing, advertising, or song lyrics.
Comparison Table
| Form | Accepted in UK English | Accepted in US English | Formal Writing | Informal Writing |
| Till | ✅ Yes (preferred) | ✅ Yes (standard) | ✅ Strongly used | ✅ Used |
| Until | ✅ Yes (standard) | ✅ Yes (standard) | ✅ Strongly used | ✅ Used |
| ’Til | ⚠ Rare, informal | ✅ Common, informal | ❌ Avoid | ✅ Used |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- If your audience is global or formal (essays, reports, news): Use until or till.
- If your audience is UK/Commonwealth: Use till (safe and traditional).
- If your audience is U.S. casual readers (blogs, ads, music): You may use ’til, but avoid it in formal work.
Professional advice: Stick with till or until—they’re always correct.
Common Mistakes with Til or Till
- ❌ I’ll wait til Monday. → ✅ I’ll wait till Monday.
- ❌ Stay here til I call you. → ✅ Stay here till I call you.
- Using ’til in academic writing → Avoid.
- Assuming till is incorrect → It’s actually the older, original word.
Til or Till in Everyday Examples
- Email: I’ll stay in the office till 5 p.m.
- News: Shops remain open till midnight during the holidays.
- Social Media: Can’t wait ’til Friday!
- Formal Writing: The committee will wait until all members arrive.
Til or Till – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows:
- “Till” is globally more common than “’til.”
- “’Til” spikes in U.S. entertainment, social media, and ads.
- “Until” remains the most frequent form in both formal and informal writing worldwide.
FAQs
Q1: Is “til” without an apostrophe correct?
No. Style guides recommend till or ’til.
Q2: Which came first, till or until?
Till is older; until came later.
Q3: Can I use ’til in academic writing?
No, stick with till or until.
Q4: Why do song lyrics often use ’til?
It’s shorter, casual, and matches rhythm.
Q5: Is “till” a contraction of “until”?
No. Till is a separate word, not a shortened form.
Q6: Which is more professional, till or until?
Until is safest in formal writing.
Q7: Do dictionaries accept ’til?
Yes, but they label it as informal.
Conclusion
The debate over “til or till” confuses many, but the answer is simple: till is the correct, original word. Until is equally valid and often more formal. ’Til, while popular in the U.S., is best left to casual contexts like social media or advertising.
If you want to sound polished and professional, choose until or till. Both are grammatically correct and accepted across English varieties worldwide. The key is knowing your audience—formal readers prefer until, while everyday communication works fine with till.
Next time you pause while typing “til or till,” you’ll know exactly which form to use with confidence.
