Understanding the Spelling Variations of Benefited and Benefitted in English Usage

Benefited vs. Benefitted: Understanding the Difference

English can be tricky, especially when words look alike. Benefited and Benefitted are two such words. Both mean to have gained or received a benefit, but they are spelled differently in different places.

History of the Words

The difference in spelling comes from different English styles. Benefited with one “t” is used in American English. Benefitted with two “t’s” is more common in British English. Over time, both have been accepted in different English-speaking places.

How to Use Them

Benefited is often used in American writing, while Benefitted might be seen in British writing. Both words mean the same thing, so you can use either depending on your audience or style guide.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember that American English likes to keep things simple. So, one “t” in Benefited is simpler. In British English, sometimes words have extra letters, so think of the extra “t” in Benefitted like an extra cup of tea.

Example Sentences Using Benefited

• The plants benefited from the rain.
• She benefited from studying every day.
• We all benefited from his wise advice.
• The workers benefited from the new policy.
• He benefited greatly from the scholarship.

Example Sentences Using Benefitted

• The children benefitted from the extra lessons.
• She benefitted greatly from the fresh air.
• The city benefitted from the new park.
• The students benefitted from the tutoring.
• He benefitted from the quiet environment.

Summary

Benefited is common in American English, while Benefitted is used in British English. Both words mean the same thing. Use the spelling that fits your audience or style guide. Remember, one “t” for the shorter, American style and two “t’s” for the longer, British style!