Analyse vs. Analyze – Difference & Meaning

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Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Is it spelled analyse or analyze? The short answer is that both spelling variations are correct. The trick is knowing the right context and parameters around both versions. Stick with me as I break down these alternative spellings for you as simply as possible. I’ll even include some examples of how to use both words in a sentence.

How Do You Spell Analyze?

Well, it depends on where you live and perhaps what audience you’re writing for. Analyze with a Z is mostly used in American spelling. Canadian publications often adopt the same spelling of this particular word, even though we usually follow UK spelling variants.

Analyse and Analyze Meaning in Alternate Spellings

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The words “analyse” and “analyze” are both forms of the verb “analyze,” which means studying or examining an object in detail in order to understand it better. The difference between the two words is in their spelling and pronunciation. “Analyse” is the British English spelling of the word, while “analyze” is the preferred spelling in American English.

Analyse vs. Analyze Ngram
Analyse and analyze usage trend.

In both British/Canadian English and American English, the verb “analyze” is used to describe the process of breaking down and examining something in order to understand it more fully. It can be used to refer to a wide range of activities, from examining data and statistics to analyzing literature or artwork.

Analyse vs. Analyze British English Ngram
British English analyse and analyze usage trend.

A researcher might “analyze” a set of data in order to identify trends or patterns, or a literary critic might “analyze” a novel in order to understand its themes and symbolism. In both cases, the goal of the analysis is to get a deeper understanding of the thing at hand.

Using Different Versions of Both

Whether you’re analysing or analyzing, if something’s being analyzed or analysed, it’s all the same in the end. Again, just consider the intended geographical audience. Use the Z if the majority will be American audiences. Use the S if you’re writing for a Canadian or British audience. However, Canada can go both ways and accept both forms of spelling all around.

Trick to Remember the Difference

It’s hard to remember which one to use and when. The way I do it is by telling myself that Canada and the UK don’t often use the letter Z. It’s not true, of course, but it’s a way to trick your brain.

Analysis vs. Analyses

The words “analysis” and “analyses” are both related to the verb “analyze.” “Analysis” is the singular form of the noun, while “analyses” is the plural form.

Saying “The scientist performed a detailed analysis of the data” is referring to a single study or examination. On the other hand, I might say, “The scientists performed several analyses on the data, each focused on a different aspect of the results,” when referring to multiple studies or examinations.

In general, “analysis” is used to refer to a single examination or study, while “analyses” is used to refer to multiple examinations or studies. It’s always important to use the correct form of the noun in order to communicate your meaning clearly and accurately.

Analyse or Analyze: How to Use Both Correctly

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Regardless of their similarities, there are some subtle differences in the way that “analyse” and “analyze” are used in British and American English. In British English, the verb “analyse” is often used in a more formal or academic context, while “analyze” is more commonly used in everyday speech and writing.

In American English, on the other hand, I see “analyze” used more frequently in both formal and informal contexts. In general, “analyze” is the more commonly used form of the verb in American English, while “analyse” is more commonly found in British English.

Is Analyse Spelled With S or Z?

I’d like to note that both spellings of the word are correct and widely accepted in their respective regions, and either can be used appropriately depending on the context. If you’re writing for an international audience, it’s definitely a good idea to use the spelling that is most commonly used in your target market.

Sentence Examples of Analyse and Analyze

Sometimes seeing a word in the context of a full sentence can help us visualize how to use them properly.

  • The scientist spent hours analyzing the data from the experiment.
  • The art critic analyzed the painting in great detail, examining the brushstrokes and color choices.
  • The market research firm was hired to analyze consumer behavior and identify trends.
  • Most psychologists analyze patients’ dreams in order to understand their unconscious thoughts and feelings.
  • The financial analyst spent the day analyzing the company’s earnings reports.
  • Our teacher asked everyone to analyze the themes and symbols in the novel.
  • Engineers analyse the structural integrity of the bridge before giving it the green light.
  • The politician’s speech was carefully analyzed by the media for hidden meanings and subtext.
  • Archaeologists are currently analysing the ancient artifacts found at the dig site.
  • The detective analysed the crime scene in an effort to piece together what happened.

Use Analyse and Analyze Wisely

So, “analyse” and “analyze” are both forms of the verb “analyze,” which means studying or looking more closely at an object or subject in hopes of understanding it better.

The main difference between the two words is their spelling, with “analyse” being the British English spelling and “analyze” being the American English spelling. Both spellings are correct and widely accepted in their respective regions, and either can be used appropriately depending on the context.

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