Have you ever written a sentence like “Children learn behaviours from adults” and then wondered if it should be behaviors instead? You are not alone. Many people search for “behaviours or behaviors” because both spellings appear correct, yet they are used in different places.
This creates confusion for students, writers and professionals who want their English to look polished and accurate.
The problem is not meaning. Both words mean the same thing. The confusion comes from spelling rules that change between British and American English.
If you write for an international audience, this small detail can feel tricky. One spelling may look wrong to some readers, even though it is correct elsewhere.
Behaviours or Behaviors – Quick Answer
Both behaviours and behaviors are correct.
- Behaviours is used in British English.
- Behaviors is used in American English.
Examples:
- British: Teachers study student behaviours in class.
- American: Scientists analyze human behaviors.
Simple rule:
UK spelling → behaviours
US spelling → behaviors
The Origin of Behaviours or Behaviors
The word behavior comes from Middle English and Old English roots related to bearing or conduct. Later, British English kept the -our ending in many words influenced by French, such as colour, favour, and behaviour.
American English changed these spellings in the 1800s. Noah Webster, a key figure in American dictionaries, promoted simpler spellings. He removed the -u from many words. That is how behaviour became behavior in the United States.
So, the spelling difference exists because English evolved differently in Britain and America, not because the meaning changed.
British English vs American English Spelling
The difference between behaviours or behaviors follows a clear spelling pattern.
Comparison Table
| British English | American English | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| behaviours | behaviors | These behaviours/behaviors affect learning. |
Other similar words:
- colour / color
- favour / favor
- neighbour / neighbor
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Choose based on your audience.
- US audience: Use behaviors
- UK audience: Use behaviours
- Canada, Australia, UK: Prefer behaviours
- Global or mixed audience: Pick one style and stay consistent
If you are writing for schools, businesses, or websites, follow their style guide. Consistency matters more than the spelling itself.
Common Mistakes with Behaviours or Behaviors
❌ Mixing both spellings in one article
✅ Choose one and use it everywhere
❌ Using American spelling in a British academic paper
✅ Match the regional style
❌ Thinking one spelling is wrong
✅ Both are correct in the right context
Tip: Check your spell-check language setting.
Behaviours or Behaviors in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- HR monitors employee behaviours/behaviors closely.
News:
- Experts warn about risky driving behaviours/behaviors.
Social Media:
- Healthy habits shape positive behaviours/behaviors.
Formal Writing:
- The study examines social behaviours/behaviors in children.
Behaviours or Behaviors – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows clear regional patterns:
- Behaviors is searched more in the United States.
- Behaviours is popular in the UK, Australia, and South Asia.
Both spellings are common in academic, psychology, and education topics. People mainly search this keyword to avoid spelling mistakes in professional or academic writing.
Behaviours or Behaviors Comparison Table
| Feature | Behaviours (UK) | Behaviors (US) |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Same | Same |
| Region | UK/Commonwealth | United States |
| Formal Use | Yes | Yes |
| Informal Use | Yes | Yes |
FAQs About Behaviours or Behaviors
1. Are behaviours and behaviors the same word?
Yes. The meaning is identical.
2. Is one spelling more correct?
No. Correctness depends on region.
3. Which spelling should I use in IELTS?
Use behaviours for British English.
4. Which spelling is used in US exams?
Use behaviors.
5. Can I mix both spellings?
No. Always stay consistent.
6. Do Google and Microsoft accept both?
Yes, depending on language settings.
7. Is behaviours plural only?
Yes. The singular is behaviour/behavior.
Conclusion
The difference between behaviours or behaviors is not about meaning. It is about spelling tradition. British English keeps the -our ending, while American English removes the -u. Both spellings are correct, formal, and widely accepted in their regions.
To avoid confusion, always think about your audience first. If you write for the UK or Commonwealth countries, use behaviours. If you write for the US, use behaviors. For global writing, choose one style and stay consistent throughout your content.
This small detail can improve clarity and professionalism in your writing. Once you understand this pattern, you will also recognize it in many other English words. That makes your writing stronger and more confident overall.
Learn about:
Parameter or Statistic: What’s the Difference ?(2026)
Lena Whitcroft is an English grammar specialist and language writer.
She focuses on spelling differences and sentence correctness.
Her articles are designed for global English learners.
Lena believes clear grammar leads to clear communication.
