Understanding the Usage and Distinctiveness of “Burned” versus “Burnt”

The Difference Between “Burned” and “Burnt”

The words “burned” and “burnt” both come from the word “burn.” They are past forms of the verb “burn.” People use both words to talk about something that was on fire or heat made it change. Now, let’s see how these words are used and how they are different.

History

The word “burn” has been in the English language for a long time. Over time, people in different places used either “burned” or “burnt.” In the United States, people like to use “burned” more. In the United Kingdom, people often use “burnt.”

How to Use “Burned”

“Burned” is commonly used in American English. It can be used to describe things that have been set on fire or damaged by heat.

• The paper burned quickly in the fire.
• I burned my hand on the hot stove.
• The toast is burned and black.
• We burned the leaves in the yard.
• The sun burned my skin during the summer.

How to Use “Burnt”

“Burnt” is more common in British English. It can also describe things affected by fire or heat. More often, it is used as an adjective.

• The cookies are burnt and not tasty.
• We have a burnt smell in the kitchen.
• She likes the burnt edges of the meat.
• The burnt wood was not useful anymore.
• The room was filled with burnt pieces of paper.

Trick to Remember the Difference

If you are in the U.S., you will probably hear and use “burned” more often. If you are in the U.K., “burnt” is the usual choice. To keep it easy, think of the “ed” in “burned” as standing for the A in “America,” and the “t” in “burnt” for the T in “Britain.”

Summary

Both “burned” and “burnt” are correct. “Burned” is more American English, while “burnt” is more British English. Use “burned” when you are writing or speaking in American style and use “burnt” when writing or speaking in British style.