Customise vs. Customize: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sara Rehman || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 10, 2023
"Customise" and "Customize" both mean to modify something according to personal preferences, differing only in British (customise) and American (customize) spelling.
Key Differences
Customise and Customize are essentially the same word, differing primarily in regional spelling preferences. "Customise" is the British English version, while "Customize" is used in American English. Both terms refer to the act of altering or modifying something to suit personal preferences or needs.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
The spelling variation between customise and customize reflects the general pattern of '-ise' versus '-ize' endings in British and American English respectively. While "customise" aligns with British English preferences for words like "realise" and "organise," "customize" aligns with American preferences like "realize" and "organize."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
In terms of usage, both customise and customize are used in similar contexts and hold the same meaning. Whether a document uses "customise" or "customize" often depends on the intended audience's regional English variety.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
The choice between customise and customize does not affect the meaning or understanding of a sentence. It's purely a stylistic preference based on regional English norms. For example, a British company might use "customise" in its communications, while an American company would use "customize."
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
In digital tools and software, the spelling of customise or customize often depends on the software's language settings. For instance, software set to British English will use "customise," while the same software set to American English will use "customize."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Regional Usage
Predominantly used in British English.
Predominantly used in American English.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Spelling Variation
Part of the British English '-ise' ending group.
Part of the American English '-ize' ending group.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Pronunciation
Pronounced the same as "customize."
Pronounced the same as "customise."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Meaning
To modify something to suit personal preferences.
To modify something to suit personal preferences.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Example Usage
"I will customise my car to reflect my style."
"I will customize my car to reflect my style."
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
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Customise and Customize Definitions
Customise
To modify for personal use.
He customised his bike to improve performance.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Customize
To adapt something for a particular user.
She customized the app settings for easier use.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Customise
To personalize a service.
Customise your travel itinerary for a unique experience.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Customize
To modify according to personal taste.
He customized his phone's interface to his liking.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Customise
To adjust to specific requirements.
They customised the software for their business.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
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Customize
To personalize a standard item.
Customize your t-shirt with your own design.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Customise
To tailor to individual needs.
She decided to customise her study plan for better results.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Customize
To alter a product to suit specific needs.
They customized their home to be more energy-efficient.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Customise
To alter a standard product.
Customise your pizza with extra toppings.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Customize
To make or alter to individual or personal specifications
Customize a van.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2022
Customize
To build or alter according to personal preferences or specifications.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2022
Customize
To tailor a service to individual preferences.
Customize your meal plan for better health.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
FAQs
Can customise and customize be used interchangeably?
Yes, they can be used interchangeably, but it's best to stick to one spelling style in a single document for consistency.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Does customise have the same pronunciation as customize?
Yes, both words are pronounced the same way.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
When should I use customise instead of customize?
Use "customise" if you are writing for a British English audience and "customize" for an American audience.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Are there any variations in usage between customise and customize?
No, they are used in the same contexts and have the same usage patterns, differing only in regional spelling.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Is it incorrect to use customise in American English?
It's not incorrect, but it's unconventional. American English typically uses "customize."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is customise used outside of the UK?
Yes, "customise" is also used in other countries where British English is the norm, like Australia and New Zealand.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are there any style guides that prefer one over the other?
Yes, style guides typically align with either British or American English norms.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are there other words with similar British and American variations?
Yes, many words have variations like "realise/realize" and "organise/organize."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is there a difference in meaning between customise and customize?
No, there's no difference in meaning; they both refer to personalizing or modifying something.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Can American English speakers understand customise?
Yes, American English speakers can understand "customise" as it has the same meaning as "customize."
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Does the choice between customise and customize affect grammar?
No, it doesn't affect the grammar of a sentence.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can I switch between customise and customize in an article?
It's best to stick to one form for consistency in your writing.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Do digital tools use both customise and customize?
Yes, digital tools may use either spelling depending on their language settings.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Does using customize in the UK seem out of place?
It may seem unusual but is generally understood.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Should I correct someone using customise in American English?
It's not necessary to correct them, but you can suggest the more conventional "customize" for American English.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Do British English dictionaries include customize?
British English dictionaries may list "customize" as an alternative spelling.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can the spelling affect the perception of a product?
Yes, the spelling can sometimes reflect the product's alignment with either British or American cultural norms.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Are there any rules for choosing between customise and customize?
The main rule is to consider your audience and the form of English they use.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Is one form older than the other?
Both forms have been in use for a long time, with the regional variations developing over time.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Are there any industries that prefer one spelling over the other?
The spelling preference often aligns with the predominant form of English used in that industry or region.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sara RehmanSara Rehman is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience at Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Information Technology, she combines her academic prowess with her passion for writing to deliver insightful and well-researched content.
