Instalment vs. Installment: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on October 12, 2023
"Instalment" and "Installment" mean the same – a part of a larger amount paid in intervals – but the former is British English, and the latter is American English.
Key Differences
Instalment is the preferred spelling in British English, representing one of several parts into which a debt or payment is divided. Installment, on the other hand, is the American English version of the same term, conveying an identical meaning.
While Instalment is more commonly seen in UK publications, documents, and agreements, Installment dominates in US texts, including legal documents, novels, and newspapers.
The divergence in spelling – Instalment with a single 'l' and Installment with double 'l' – is one of many instances where British and American English have evolved distinct conventions.
Regardless of the spelling, whether Instalment or Installment, the context remains the same: breaking down a sum of money owed or the release of something in parts over time.
It's crucial for writers, especially those drafting international contracts or documents, to be aware of the distinction between Instalment and Installment to ensure clarity and avoid potential misunderstandings.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
One of several parts into which a debt or payment is divided.
One of several parts into which a debt or payment is divided.
Origin of Spelling
British English
American English
Usage in Sentence
"The first instalment is due next week."
"The first installment will be automatically deducted from your account."
Number of 'L's
One 'l'
Two 'l's
Commonly Found In
UK publications, contracts, and documents.
US texts, including legal documents, novels, and newspapers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Instalment and Installment Definitions
Instalment
A method of spreading out payments over time.
They bought the furniture on instalment.
Installment
A system that enables payment for goods in parts over a period.
They purchased their new TV on installment.
Instalment
One of several components of something.
She paid the first instalment of her tuition today.
Installment
An episode or part of a continuing series.
The next installment of the TV series airs tonight.
Instalment
A division of a total amount.
The insurance premium can be paid in monthly instalments.
Installment
A specific part of a broader amount that's paid at intervals.
The car will be paid for in 12 monthly installments.
Instalment
Part of a series or sequence.
The novel's next instalment will be released next year.
Installment
One of the many segments of a total debt or purchase.
The installment plan made the purchase more manageable.
Instalment
A portion of a larger sum, to be paid at intervals.
The second instalment of the loan is due in December.
Installment
One of a number of successive payments in settlement of a debt.
Instalment
One of a number of successive payments in settlement of a debt.
Installment
A portion of something, such as a publication, issued at intervals.
Instalment
A portion of something, such as a publication, issued at intervals.
Installment
A chapter or part of a literary work presented serially.
Instalment
A chapter or part of a literary work presented serially.
Installment
See installation.
Instalment
See installation.
Installment
One of a series of parts, whether equal or unequal to the other parts of the series, of a given entity or a given process, which part presents or is presented at a particular scheduled interval.
Instalment
Alternative spelling of installment
Installment
One member of a series of portions of a debt or sum of money, which portions may or may not be equated (depending in part on whether the interest rate is fixed or variable), payment of which portions are serially exacted at regularly scheduled intervals toward satisfaction of the total. Payments of installments are generally mensual, quarterly, triannual, biannual, or annual.
Instalment
A part of a broadcast serial
Installment
A part of a published or broadcast serial.
Instalment
A part of a published serial
Installment
The act of installing; installation.
Instalment
The act of installing something (as equipment);
The telephone installation took only a few minutes
Installment
(obsolete) The seat in which one is placed.
Installment
The act of installing; installation.
Take oaths from all kings and magistrates at their installment, to do impartial justice by law.
Installment
The seat in which one is placed.
The several chairs of order, look, you scour; . . . Each fair installment, coat, and several crestWith loyal blazon, evermore be blest.
Installment
A portion of a debt, or sum of money, which is divided into portions that are made payable at different times; that portion of a debt payed back in any one payment; as, the next installment is due January first. Payment by installment is payment by parts at different times, the amounts and times being often definitely stipulated.
Installment
A part of a broadcast serial.
Installment
A part of a published serial.
Installment
A payment of part of a debt; usually paid at regular intervals
Installment
A part of a broadcast serial
Installment
A part of a published serial
Installment
The act of installing something (as equipment);
The telephone installation took only a few minutes
Installment
A division of a total sum payable.
He just paid the final installment for his vacation package.
FAQs
Are "instalment" and "installment" the same thing?
Yes, they mean the same but differ in regional spelling – "instalment" for British English and "installment" for American English.
In international contracts, which spelling should I use: "instalment" or "installment"?
Consider your audience. If it's primarily American, use "installment"; if British, use "instalment". If unsure, specify the preference at the document's beginning.
Can a text have both spellings?
It's best to remain consistent within a single text, so choose one spelling and stick with it.
Can I use "installment" when writing for a British audience?
While understood, "instalment" is preferred for British audiences.
In global organizations, which spelling is more prevalent?
It depends on the organization's origins and primary audience. Some may use "installment" due to the global influence of American English.
Are there other words with similar UK-US spelling differences?
Yes, like "favour" (UK) vs. "favor" (US) or "colour" (UK) vs. "color" (US).
Do dictionaries list both "instalment" and "installment"?
Yes, most comprehensive dictionaries list both, indicating regional preferences.
How did the difference between "instalment" and "installment" arise?
Language evolution and regional preferences have led to spelling variations between British and American English.
Is one spelling older than the other?
Both have historical roots, but regional preferences have made one more dominant in certain areas.
Are there other differences between British and American English I should be aware of?
Yes, besides spelling, there are differences in pronunciation
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
