Whiskey or Whisky: The Missing ‘E’ Mystery

Whiskey versus Whisky

Do you ever wonder why sometimes you see “whiskey” with an ‘e’ and sometimes you see “whisky” without an ‘e’? Let’s learn about these two words, their history, how to use them, and a trick to remember the difference.

History

The word “whiskey” comes from Ireland and the United States. People in these places made a special drink from grains. They called it “whiskey” with an ‘e’. On the other hand, “whisky” comes from Scotland and Canada. People there made a similar drink but spelled it “whisky” without an ‘e’.

How to Use Them

When talking about whiskey from Ireland or the United States, you should use “whiskey” with an ‘e’. When talking about whisky from Scotland or Canada, you should use “whisky” without an ‘e’.

Examples with “Whiskey”

• She poured a glass of Irish whiskey.
• He likes to drink American whiskey.
• They bought a bottle of Kentucky whiskey.
• We tried some old Tennessee whiskey.
• My dad enjoys sipping his favorite whiskey.

Examples with “Whisky”

• Scotland is famous for its whisky.
• He received a bottle of Canadian whisky as a gift.
• They visited a Scottish whisky distillery.
• She prefers single malt whisky from Scotland.
• We learned how they make whisky in Canada.

Trick to Remember the Difference

A simple trick to remember is: Countries with an ‘e’ in their names like IrEland and UnitEd StatEs use “whiskey” with an ‘e’. Countries without an ‘e’ like Scotland and Canada use “whisky” without an ‘e’.

Summary

Use “whiskey” when talking about the drink from Ireland and the United States. Use “whisky” when talking about the drink from Scotland and Canada. Remember the trick with the ‘e’ in the country’s name to know which word to use.