Instil vs. Instill: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss || Updated on May 23, 2024
"Instil" and "Instill" have the same meaning, referring to gradually imparting an idea or feeling, but "instil" is the British English spelling while "instill" is the American English spelling.
Key Differences
"Instil" is the British English spelling, used predominantly in the UK and other countries that follow British spelling conventions. For instance, in the UK, you might say, "The teacher aims to instil a love of reading in students." "Instill" is the American English spelling, used primarily in the United States. An example sentence would be, "Parents often try to instill good values in their children." Both terms mean to gradually impart or introduce ideas, feelings, or principles.
In academic writing or formal documents, it's important to choose the spelling based on the intended audience's regional spelling preferences. For instance, a document for a British audience should use "instil," while one for an American audience should use "instill."
In terms of usage, both "instil" and "instill" can be used in the same contexts, such as education, parenting, and leadership. The only difference lies in the regional spelling preference.
Despite the spelling difference, both terms carry the same nuance of gradual and persistent introduction of ideas or feelings, indicating a slow, steady process rather than a sudden one.
Comparison Chart
Spelling
Instil
Instill
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Regional Usage
British English and Commonwealth countries
American English
Example in Education
"Teachers aim to instil discipline."
"Teachers aim to instill discipline."
Formal Documents
Use in British English contexts
Use in American English contexts
Meaning
Gradually impart ideas or feelings
Gradually impart ideas or feelings
Instil and Instill Definitions
Instil
To infuse slowly.
The program aims to instil confidence in learners.
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Instill
To gradually impart.
Parents strive to instill respect in their children.
Instil
To gradually impart.
The school tries to instil good manners in students.
Instill
To introduce an idea slowly.
The teacher works to instill curiosity in students.
Instil
To introduce an idea slowly.
They hope to instil a sense of duty in the team.
Instill
To infuse slowly.
The program is designed to instill leadership qualities.
Instil
To implant subtly.
She sought to instil a love for nature in her children.
Instill
To implant subtly.
They want to instill a sense of community in residents.
Instil
To inculcate persistently.
The coach's goal is to instil teamwork in players.
Instill
To inculcate persistently.
The training aims to instill discipline in employees.
Instil
To introduce by gradual, persistent efforts; implant
"Morality ... may be instilled into their minds" (Thomas Jefferson).
Instill
To introduce by gradual, persistent efforts; implant
"Morality ... may be instilled into their minds" (Thomas Jefferson).
Instil
To pour in (medicine, for example) drop by drop.
Instill
To pour in (medicine, for example) drop by drop.
Instil
Standard spelling of from2=Ireland
Instill
To cause a quality to become part of someone's nature.
It is important to instill discipline in a child at an early age.
Instil
Same as instill.
Instill
To pour in (medicine, for example) drop by drop.
Instil
Enter drop by drop;
Instill medication into my eye
Instill
To drop in; to pour in drop by drop.
That starlight dewsAll silently their tears of love instill.
Instill
To infuse (knowledge or attitudes) into the mind of another, slowly or gradually; to impart gradually; to cause to be imbibed.
How hast thou instilledThy malice into thousands.
Instill
Impart gradually;
Her presence instilled faith into the children
Transfuse love of music into the students
Instill
Enter drop by drop;
Instill medication into my eye
Instill
Produce or try to produce a vivid impression of;
Mother tried to ingrain respect for our elders in us
Instill
Teach and impress by frequent repetitions or admonitions;
Inculcate values into the young generation
Instill
Fill, as with a certain quality;
The heavy traffic tinctures the air with carbon monoxide
FAQs
Is "instil" used in the US?
No, "instil" is not commonly used in the US; "instill" is preferred.
Is "instill" used in the UK?
"Instill" can be understood in the UK, but "instil" is the preferred spelling.
What does "instil" mean?
"Instil" means to gradually impart ideas or feelings. E.g., The program aims to instil confidence.
Which is correct, "instil" or "instill"?
Both are correct; "instil" is British English and "instill" is American English.
Can I use "instill" in British publications?
It's preferable to use "instil" for British publications.
Are there other words like "instil" and "instill"?
Yes, "enrol/enroll" and "fulfil/fulfill" are similar examples.
Is "instil" common in Australia?
Yes, "instil" is used in Australian English, which follows British conventions.
Do "instil" and "instill" come from the same root?
Yes, both derive from the Latin "instillare."
What does "instill" mean?
"Instill" means the same as "instil," to gradually impart ideas or feelings. E.g., The teacher aims to instill curiosity.
Is "instil" considered archaic?
No, "instil" is standard in British English.
Does "instil" have different meanings than "instill"?
No, they have the same meanings but differ in regional spelling.
Can I use "instil" in academic papers in the US?
No, it's better to use "instill" for American audiences.
Is there any difference in pronunciation?
No, both "instil" and "instill" are pronounced the same.
Which form is older, "instil" or "instill"?
Both forms have been in use for centuries, adapting to regional spelling conventions.
Is "instill" a modern spelling?
No, "instill" is the standard American spelling, not a modern variation.
Are "instil" and "instill" used in other English-speaking countries?
Yes, "instil" is used in countries following British spelling, while "instill" is used in those following American spelling.
Do "instil" and "instill" have synonyms?
Yes, synonyms include "inculcate," "imbue," and "implant."
Can "instil" be used in American English legal documents?
No, "instill" should be used in American English legal documents.
Can "instil" and "instill" be used interchangeably in informal writing?
Informally, yes, but it's best to follow regional spelling norms.
Do British and American dictionaries list both forms?
Yes, but each dictionary lists the form appropriate to its regional spelling conventions.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
