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Finalise vs. Finalize: What's the Difference?

Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 3, 2023
"Finalise" and "finalize" both mean to complete or conclude something, with "finalise" being British English and "finalize" being American English.

Key Differences

"Finalise" represents a word that is predominantly observed in British English, primarily referring to the act of completing, concluding, or making a decision or agreement final and unalterable. On the other hand, "finalize" is the counterpart used in American English, signifying essentially the same: reaching a conclusive point where something is determined or rendered complete. The variation in spelling, with “-ise” versus “-ize”, is a typical difference found in British and American English respectively.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
In a context where an individual might say, "We will finalise the details tomorrow" in the UK, an American counterpart might express the same intent by saying, "We will finalize the details tomorrow". The meaning remains intact across these two versions, even as the spelling changes to align with regional language norms. Both words imply reaching a resolution or firm conclusion regarding the matter being discussed.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
In documents or communication where adherence to British English is expected or necessary, "finalise" would be the suitable choice to convey completion or conclusiveness. Conversely, in settings where American English is the standard or where international audiences (who often engage with American English) are the target, "finalize" would be appropriately employed.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
The importance of choosing "finalise" or "finalize" appropriately extends to maintaining consistency in language use across a document or communication. For instance, adhering to British English might also involve selecting "organise" over "organize", maintaining a coherent linguistic approach. When considering these two words in professional, academic, or formal writing, paying attention to the intended or expected language variant is crucial.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
In summary, while "finalise" and "finalize" provide identical semantic value, serving to express the act of completing or making something definite, the selection between these two is generally guided by the linguistic norms of either British or American English. Knowing your audience, the context, and the applicable language standards will guide the appropriate use of either term.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
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Comparison Chart

Spelling

British English spelling.
American English spelling.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Meaning

To make something final or complete.
To make something final or complete.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Usage in Sentences

Used in regions adhering to British English.
Predominantly used in the USA.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Common Variants

Organise, realise, recognise.
Organize, realize, recognize.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Preferred in Regions

UK, Australia, New Zealand.
United States, Canada.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
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Finalise and Finalize Definitions

Finalise

To bring something to a conclusion.
Let's finalise the project soon.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Finalize

To conclude all discussions or negotiations.
We hope to finalize the deal by Friday.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

Finalise

To complete the last parts of a task.
I will finalise the report tonight.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023

Finalize

To confirm or affirm a decision.
The board will finalize the new policy.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023

Finalise

To make something officially complete.
We'll finalise the deal next week.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
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Finalize

To make final or complete.
I will finalize the letter before sending it.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Finalise

To settle on a decision.
We need to finalise the plans for the event.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023

Finalize

To complete the remaining parts of a task.
She will finalize the design tomorrow.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Finalise

To conclude discussions or negotiations.
We aim to finalise the talks today.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

Finalize

To put in final form.
Let's finalize our presentation slides.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

Finalise

Standard spelling of finalize
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalize

To put into final form; complete.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalise

Make final; put the last touches on; put into final form;
Let's finalize the proposal
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalize

(transitive) To make final or firm; to finish or complete.
As soon as we get the plane tickets, we'll finalize our reservations with the hotel.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalize

To prepare (an object) for garbage collection by calling its finalizer.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalize

To put the last touches on; put into final form.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

Finalize

Make final; put the last touches on; put into final form;
Let's finalize the proposal
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 28, 2022

FAQs

Is finalise correct in American English?

It's understood but finalize is standard.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Are finalize and finalise interchangeable?

Yes, but depend on American and British English usage, respectively.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Is finalize used in the UK?

Less commonly; finalise is standard.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Can finalise mean to confirm something?

Yes, it can imply making something definite or confirmed.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Can finalize refer to decisions?

Yes, e.g., "finalize a decision".
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023

Is finalise used in Australia?

Yes, Australian English uses British spelling.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023

Is finalize used in Canada?

Yes, Canadian English often uses American spelling.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

Is finalise formal language?

Yes, it’s used in formal and informal contexts.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023

Can I use finalize in an academic paper in the US?

Yes, finalize is standard in US academic writing.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023

Can I use finalise in legal documents?

Yes, especially in British English contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

Does finalize mean to end something?

Yes, it can imply bringing something to a conclusion.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

Should I use finalize in international communication?

Often yes, as American English is commonly used internationally.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023

What is the noun form of finalize?

Finalization.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023

What is the noun form of finalise?

Finalisation.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira Riaz
Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera Saeed
Sumera 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.

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