Oxford spelling facts for kids
Oxford spelling is a special way of spelling words, mostly used in the Oxford English Dictionary. It's like a specific style guide for how words should look.
For example, if you usually spell the word "color" with an "o," Oxford spelling uses "colour" with a "u." It's just a different way to write the same word.
What is Oxford Spelling?
Oxford spelling refers to the main way words are spelled in Oxford's famous dictionaries. While the dictionaries might list other spellings, the main entry for each word follows this specific style. It's like the official spelling for those books.
How is it Different?
One of the most common differences you'll see is with words ending in "-ize" or "-ise." Many people in Britain often use spellings like "organise" or "realise." However, Oxford spelling prefers "organize" and "realize" with a "z." Both of these spellings are correct in British English, but Oxford dictionaries choose the "z" version.
- Example 1: Instead of "color," Oxford spelling uses "colour."
- Example 2: Instead of "organise," Oxford spelling uses "organize."
Where is it Used?
As the name suggests, Oxford spelling is mainly found in the Oxford English Dictionary and other books published by Oxford University Press. It's a recognized and accepted style, especially in academic and publishing circles that follow Oxford's guidelines.
See also
In Spanish: Ortografía de Oxford para niños
