Spelling in English can sometimes be straightforward, but words like “travel” present a unique challenge with variations such as “traveled” and “travelled,” or “traveling” and “travelling.” So, Is Travelling with one “l” or two? The answer depends on where you are.
Woman checking the departures board at the airport, searching for her flight
The Single L vs. Double L Dilemma
When considering whether to use one “l” or two, a geographical pattern emerges. In the United States, “traveled” and “traveling” are the predominant spellings. However, in most other parts of the English-speaking world, “travelled” and “travelling” are preferred. This difference isn’t arbitrary; it’s largely due to the influence of Noah Webster.
Noah Webster and Spelling Reform
Noah Webster, a key figure in American lexicography, championed spelling reform. He believed in making English spelling more logical. If American English could be more streamlined than its British counterpart, so much the better. Webster decided that the verb “travel” only needed one “l” in its past and present participle forms. This is why, in the U.S., you’ll typically see “traveled” and “traveling.”
This logic extends to other words as well. For example, the words “canceled” and “cancelled” follow the same pattern. In the United States, the single “l” version (“canceled”) is standard, while outside the U.S., the double “l” version (“cancelled”) is more common. This consistency helps to understand the distinction and is travelling with one “l” makes sense in US English.
Exceptions: When American English Keeps the Double L
It’s not a blanket rule that Webster sought to eliminate all double “l”s. In cases where the accent or emphasis falls on the syllable containing the “l,” the double “l” is preserved even in American English. Examples include “expelled” and “expelling,” “controlled” and “controlling,” and “patrolled” and “patrolling.” These words maintain the double “l” because the stress pattern is different from words like “travel.”
This exception highlights a nuance in the spelling rules. While Webster aimed to simplify many words, he recognized that certain phonetic structures warranted retaining the double “l.”
Understanding Spelling Preferences
The key takeaway is that both spellings are correct, depending on the region. If you are travelling in the United States, “traveling” is the standard spelling. If you are elsewhere, “travelling” is more appropriate. Being aware of these regional differences ensures clarity and avoids potential confusion.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether you choose to spell it “traveling” or “travelling,” the most important thing is clear communication. Understanding the historical and regional influences on spelling helps navigate the complexities of the English language. So next time you is travelling, remember the great Noah Webster and the impact he had on American English.
