Cancellation vs Cancelation: Which Spelling is Correct?

When it comes to the English language, spelling differences often cause confusion. One such debate that frequently arises is cancellation vs cancelation. While they may seem interchangeable, the correct spelling can vary based on the context and regional spelling norms.

If you’ve ever hesitated over whether to use cancelation or cancellation, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the subtle distinctions between these two spellings, when to use each one, and the rules behind their usage.

What is the Difference Between Cancellation and Cancelation?

At first glance, both cancellation and cancelation seem to refer to the same concept: the act of calling off or ending something. However, cancellation is the more widely accepted spelling, especially in British English, while cancelation is more commonly used in American English.

Both spellings have the same meaning, and their use can depend largely on where you are and which version of English you follow. Let’s break it down further.

The Correct Spelling: Cancellation

The correct spelling of this word, according to most modern dictionaries, is cancellation, especially when writing in British English. Cancellation refers to the act of revoking or calling off something, such as an event, an order, or a subscription.

Here’s an example in context:

• Example: I regret to inform you that the event scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

As you can see, cancellation is used in this sentence, indicating that the event has been officially called off. The double “l” in cancellation is the typical spelling found in British English, which is part of a broader rule of thumb for many words with this form.

Scenario 1: An Email Using Cancellation

Let’s say you’re emailing a customer about a cancelled appointment. Here’s how you might use cancellation in the email:

Subject: Appointment Cancellation

Dear Mrs. Thompson,

We are writing to inform you that, due to unexpected scheduling conflicts, your appointment scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and will reach out to you shortly to reschedule.

Thank you for your understanding.

Best regards,
The Appointment Scheduling Team

Notice how cancellation is used in formal, professional communication. This spelling ensures the message comes across as polished and accurate.

The Alternative: Cancelation

In American English, cancelation is the preferred spelling. Though it is considered an acceptable variant in the U.S., it is less common in other English-speaking countries.

Let’s look at an example:

• Example: Due to a family emergency, the flight has been canceled.

In American contexts, cancelation (with a single “l”) is used instead of cancellation, although both versions are understood.

Scenario 2: An Email Using Cancelation

Now, let’s imagine you’re a customer service agent for an airline company in the United States:

Subject: Flight Cancelation Notice

Dear Mr. Carter,

We regret to inform you that, due to weather conditions, your flight has been canceled. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and are working diligently to accommodate all affected passengers. Our team will assist you with rebooking options.

Thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,
Customer Service Team

In this case, the cancelation spelling aligns with American English conventions. The meaning remains identical, but the regional spelling preference comes into play.

Origins of Cancellation

Both cancelation and cancellation have their roots in the Latin word “cancellare,” meaning “to cross out” or “to remove.” This is why the word generally refers to the act of nullifying something—whether it’s an event, subscription, or contract.

Historically, cancellation was spelled with a single “l,” but over time, the double “l” variant gained popularity in British English. This shift likely had to do with a trend in English spelling to double consonants when adding suffixes.

The American vs British spelling differences further influenced the distinct spellings we see today. American lexicographer Noah Webster—famous for simplifying American English spellings—was one of the major forces behind the use of cancelation in the U.S.

The Impact of Noah Webster’s Spelling Changes

In the early 19th century, Noah Webster introduced many spelling changes in an effort to make American English more phonetic and easier to learn. One of these changes was the preference for using a single “l” in words like cancelation, traveled, and canceled instead of their double-l counterparts in British English (cancellation, travelled, cancelled).

Webster’s reforms laid the foundation for many of the differences between American vs British spelling, and today, these variations continue to persist.

Correct Spelling of Cancellation: British vs American English

While the correct spelling of cancellation in British English is typically with a double “l”, in American English, it’s commonly spelled with a single “l”. This distinction is important for writers, especially when producing content for international audiences, as it helps ensure that the text resonates with the right readership.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Word	British English	American English
Cancellation	Cancellation	Cancelation
Canceled	Cancelled	Canceled
Traveled	Travelled	Traveled

In the context of professional writing, such as business correspondence or academic papers, it’s important to stay consistent with one spelling format throughout your document.

Double “L” in British English vs Single “L” in American English

The rule is simple: when spelling cancellation, British English uses the double “l,” and American English prefers the single “l.” This distinction can be seen in many other words, such as travelling (British) vs traveling (American), cancelled (British) vs canceled (American), and enrolment (British) vs enrollment (American).

Cancelation or Cancellation Usage: What’s the Right One?

You might wonder: When should I use each?

• Use cancellation if you’re writing in British English, or if you want to adhere to traditional, more formal English spelling.
• Use cancelation if you’re writing in American English or if you prefer a simplified version.

In professional and formal settings, especially when addressing a global audience, it’s best to stick with cancellation for consistency, as it is the more recognized spelling.

Examples of Cancellation in Sentences

1. Cancellation of the conference was announced via email yesterday.
2. The cancellation of the event was due to an unforeseen emergency.
3. Please provide a confirmation of your cancellation request as soon as possible.
4. The airline issued a formal cancellation notice for the flight.

Synonyms of Cancellation: Alternative Phrasing

Sometimes, using synonyms for cancellation can help keep your writing fresh. Here are some alternatives:

• Annulment
• Revocation
• Abolition
• Termination
• Nullification

Each of these words has a slightly different connotation, so make sure to use them in the right context.

Examples of Cancellation Synonyms in Sentences

1. The revocation of her membership was unfortunate, but necessary.
2. The termination of the service contract will take effect next month.
3. After the annulment of the agreement, we could not proceed with the project.

Spelling Rules for Double Consonants

In English, when adding suffixes like -ation or -ed to words ending in a consonant, you generally double the final consonant if the word has a short vowel sound before it. This rule explains why British English prefers cancellation and cancelled, while American English uses cancelation and canceled.

Double Consonants in Words

• Cancel + -ation = Cancellation (British)
• Cancel + -ed = Cancelled (British)

Cancellation Etymology

The word cancellation stems from the Latin verb cancellare, which means “to cross out.” Its evolution into the modern English form reflects its shift from a technical term (referring to the physical act of crossing out) to a broader term for nullifying or revoking anything.

Conclusion: Which Should You Use?

Ultimately, the choice between cancellation vs cancelation boils down to your audience and location. If you’re writing in British English, use cancellation with the double “l”. If you’re following American English conventions, cancelation with the single “l” is perfectly acceptable.

Being consistent with your spelling throughout a piece of writing is key. Whether you’re drafting a formal email, writing an academic paper, or composing a professional letter, knowing the right spelling can improve your clarity and professionalism.

When in doubt, check your audience’s preference, and don’t hesitate to use a thesaurus for alternative words like revocation or termination. Spelling might seem like a small detail, but it makes a difference in how your message is perceived!