Levelling vs. Leveling: What's the Difference?

By Janet White & Harlon Moss || Updated on March 4, 2024

"Levelling" and "leveling" refer to the same process of making a surface even or balanced, with the difference primarily being in spelling variations between British English ("levelling") and American English ("leveling").

Key Differences

The term, whether spelled as "levelling" in British English or "leveling" in American English, denotes the action of making a surface horizontal, even, or uniform. This process can apply in various contexts, including construction, where it might involve adjusting the ground to a flat state before building, or in video games, where it refers to increasing a character's power or abilities to reach the next stage or level.

The difference in spelling reflects broader patterns in British and American English, where British English often retains the double consonant in verbs that end in a vowel plus "l" when adding endings like "-ing" or "-ed" (e.g., "travelling" in British English vs. "traveling" in American English). Despite these spelling variations, the concept and applications of "levelling/leveling" remain consistent across English-speaking regions.

Both terms encompass a wide range of activities beyond their literal meaning. In a metaphorical sense, "levelling up" can signify personal growth or improvement in any area of life. Similarly, "levelling" can imply bringing fairness or equality to a situation, such as "levelling the playing field" in competitions or opportunities.

The choice between "levelling" and "leveling" depends on the writer's or speaker's preference for British or American spelling conventions, but it has no impact on the term's understanding or application in various contexts.

Comparison Chart

Definition

Making a surface or area flat or even

Contexts

Construction, gaming, personal growth, equality

Spelling Rule

Double "l" before adding "-ing"

Single "l" before adding "-ing"

Geographic Usage

Preferred in British English-speaking countries

Preferred in American English-speaking countries

Examples

Levelling the ground for a new building

Leveling a character up in a game

Levelling and Leveling Definitions

Levelling

Making an area of ground flat.

The team spent the day levelling the site for the new playground.

Leveling

Creating fairness or equality.

The scholarship program is leveling opportunities for all students.

Levelling

Adjusting to make precise measurements.

Levelling the instrument is crucial for accurate data collection.

Leveling

Calibrating equipment for accuracy.

Leveling the telescope ensured a clear view of the stars.

Levelling

Increasing a character's rank or abilities in a game.

She spent hours levelling her character in the online RPG.

Leveling

Advancing in stages or ranks within a game.

Leveling up quickly requires strategy and skill.

Levelling

Equalizing opportunities or conditions.

The new policy aims at levelling the educational playing field.

Leveling

Stabilizing emotions or attitudes.

Her approach to challenges has been instrumental in leveling her mood.

Levelling

Achieving emotional or mental balance.

Meditation has been key in levelling his stress levels.

Leveling

Flattening the surface of an area.

We're leveling the backyard to install a pool.

Levelling

An instrument for ascertaining whether a surface is horizontal, vertical, or at a 45° angle, consisting essentially of an encased, liquid-filled tube containing an air bubble that moves to a center window when the instrument is set on an even plane. Also called spirit level.

Leveling

Relative position or rank on a scale

The local level of government.

Studying at the graduate level.

Levelling

Relative position or rank on a scale

The local level of government.

Studying at the graduate level.

Leveling

A relative degree, as of achievement, intensity, or concentration

An unsafe level of toxicity.

A high level of frustration.

Levelling

A relative degree, as of achievement, intensity, or concentration

An unsafe level of toxicity.

A high level of frustration.

Leveling

A natural or proper position, place, or stage

I finally found my own level in the business world.

Levelling

A natural or proper position, place, or stage

I finally found my own level in the business world.

Leveling

Position along a vertical axis; height or depth

A platform at knee level.

Levelling

Position along a vertical axis; height or depth

A platform at knee level.

Leveling

A horizontal line or plane at right angles to the plumb.

Levelling

A horizontal line or plane at right angles to the plumb.

Leveling

The position or height of such a line or plane.

Levelling

The position or height of such a line or plane.

Leveling

A flat, horizontal surface.

Levelling

A flat, horizontal surface.

Leveling

A land area of uniform elevation.

Levelling

A land area of uniform elevation.

Leveling

Levelling

Such a device combined with a telescope and used in surveying.

Leveling

Such a device combined with a telescope and used in surveying.

Levelling

A computation of the difference in elevation between two points by using such a device.

Leveling

A computation of the difference in elevation between two points by using such a device.

Levelling

Having a flat, smooth surface

A level countertop.

Leveling

Having a flat, smooth surface

A level countertop.

Levelling

Being on a horizontal plane

A level field.

Leveling

Being on a horizontal plane

A level field.

Levelling

Being at the same height or position as another; even.

Leveling

Being at the same height or position as another; even.

Levelling

Being at the same degree of rank, standing, or advantage as another; equal.

Leveling

Being at the same degree of rank, standing, or advantage as another; equal.

Levelling

Being or relating to a specified rank or standing. Often used in combination

A lower-level administrator.

Leveling

Being or relating to a specified rank or standing. Often used in combination

A lower-level administrator.

Levelling

Exhibiting no abrupt variations; steady

Spoke in a level tone.

Leveling

Exhibiting no abrupt variations; steady

Spoke in a level tone.

Levelling

Rational and balanced; sensible

Came to a level appraisal of the situation.

Keeps a level head in an emergency.

Leveling

Rational and balanced; sensible

Came to a level appraisal of the situation.

Keeps a level head in an emergency.

Levelling

Filled evenly to the top

A level tablespoon of the medicine.

Leveling

Filled evenly to the top

A level tablespoon of the medicine.

Levelling

To make horizontal, flat, or even

Leveled the driveway with a roller.

Leveled off the hedges with the clippers.

Leveling

To make horizontal, flat, or even

Leveled the driveway with a roller.

Leveled off the hedges with the clippers.

Levelling

To place on the same rank; equalize.

Leveling

To place on the same rank; equalize.

Levelling

To tear down (a building, for example); raze.

Leveling

To tear down (a building, for example); raze.

Levelling

To knock down, as with a blow; lay low

Leveled the opponent with an uppercut.

Leveling

To knock down, as with a blow; lay low

Leveled the opponent with an uppercut.

Levelling

To aim along a horizontal plane

Leveled the gun at the target.

Leveling

To aim along a horizontal plane

Leveled the gun at the target.

Levelling

To direct emphatically or forcefully toward someone

Leveled charges of dishonesty.

Leveling

To direct emphatically or forcefully toward someone

Leveled charges of dishonesty.

Levelling

To measure the different elevations of (a tract of land) with a level.

Leveling

To measure the different elevations of (a tract of land) with a level.

Levelling

To bring persons or things to an equal level; equalize.

Leveling

To bring persons or things to an equal level; equalize.

Levelling

To aim a weapon horizontally.

Leveling

To aim a weapon horizontally.

Levelling

(Informal) To be frank and open

Advised the suspect to level with the authorities.

Leveling

(Informal) To be frank and open

Advised the suspect to level with the authorities.

Levelling

Along a flat or even line or plane.

Leveling

Along a flat or even line or plane.

Levelling

Present participle of level

Leveling

The process of making something level.

Leveling

The process of measuring levels to establish heights and altitudes.

Leveling

The act or operation of making level.

Leveling

The art or operation of using a leveling instrument for finding a horizontal line, for ascertaining the differences of level between different points of the earth's surface included in a survey, for establishing grades, etc., as in finding the descent of a river, or locating a line of railroad.

Leveling

Changing the ground level to a smooth horizontal or gently sloping surface

Leveling

Complete destruction of a building

Leveling

The act of making equal or uniform

FAQs

Can "levelling" apply to personal development?

Yes, "levelling" metaphorically applies to personal or professional growth and development.

How is "leveling" used in construction?

In construction, "leveling" refers to the process of making the ground or foundation flat and even before building.

Is the meaning of "levelling" different from "leveling"?

No, the meaning is the same; the difference is purely in spelling preferences between British and American English.

When should I use "levelling" vs. "leveling"?

Use "levelling" when writing in British English and "leveling" in American English contexts.

Can "leveling up" refer to skills outside of gaming?

Absolutely, "leveling up" can metaphorically refer to improving any skill or aspect of one's life or career.

What does "leveling the playing field" mean?

It means creating equal opportunities and conditions for all participants in a competition or situation.

Does the spelling variation affect search results online?

Yes, spelling variations can affect search results, so it's helpful to try both if looking for specific information.

What industries rely heavily on levelling/leveling techniques?

Construction, landscaping, surveying, and civil engineering industries rely heavily on levelling techniques to ensure accuracy and stability in their projects.

Are there any exceptions to the spelling rule for "levelling/leveling"?

The main exception is regional preference; otherwise, the spelling follows the general British vs. American English conventions.

Are there educational or training programs focused on levelling/leveling techniques?

Yes, educational programs in construction, surveying, and civil engineering often include training on levelling techniques as a fundamental skill.

What role does levelling/leveling play in agriculture?

In agriculture, levelling the land is crucial for irrigation efficiency, preventing soil erosion, and ensuring uniform distribution of water and nutrients.

How does levelling/leveling affect the gameplay experience in video games?

Levelling up in video games affects gameplay by unlocking new abilities, items, or areas, enhancing the player's engagement and challenge throughout the game.

Is there a tool specifically for leveling?

Yes, tools like spirit levels, laser levels, and leveling instruments are used to ensure surfaces are horizontal and even.

How does levelling/leveling contribute to environmental management?

Levelling can play a role in environmental management by ensuring proper drainage and reducing erosion, contributing to sustainable land use and conservation efforts.

Can digital technology be used for levelling/leveling?

Yes, digital levels and laser leveling tools have revolutionized precision in various applications, providing high accuracy and efficiency in construction, surveying, and more.

What advancements have been made in levelling/leveling technology?

Recent advancements include the development of more precise and user-friendly digital leveling instruments, GPS-based leveling systems, and software for analyzing and processing leveling data.

What are the consequences of improper levelling/leveling in construction?

Improper levelling can lead to structural issues, water pooling, uneven foundations, and ultimately, the failure of construction projects, emphasizing the need for precision.

How is levelling/leveling important in road construction?

Levelling is vital in road construction for creating smooth, safe surfaces, ensuring proper drainage, and enhancing the longevity and usability of roads.

What are some DIY projects where levelling/leveling is essential?

DIY projects such as laying flooring, installing shelving, and building decks or patios require precise levelling to ensure stability and aesthetic appeal.

Can "leveling" be used in a negative context?

While generally positive or neutral, "leveling" can be used negatively, such as in "leveling criticism," implying a harsh or direct critique.

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About Author

Written by

Janet White

Janet 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.

Co-written by

Harlon Moss

Harlon 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.