Localisation vs. Localization: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sara Rehman || Updated on November 10, 2023
Localisation and localization are the same process of adapting content for regional audiences, differing only in spelling: 'localisation' is British English, 'localization' is American English.
Key Differences
Localisation is the British English spelling of the process where products, services, or content are adapted to suit local markets or regions. Localization, spelled with a 'z', is the American English version of the same term, with the same meaning and application.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
In the context of global business and technology, localisation is used in documents and communications following British English norms. Localization is used in American English contexts, including software development and marketing.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Both localisation and localization refer to the same process of culturally and linguistically adapting content, such as translating text, converting currencies, or modifying graphical elements to be region-specific.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
When a company decides to localise its product, it customizes aspects like language, design, and functionality for different regions. Similarly, localizing a product involves the same customization steps to ensure it is suitable for the target market.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
The choice between localisation and localization depends on the preferred variant of English. Both terms are used interchangeably in international settings, depending on the linguistic preference of the audience or company.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
Adapting content for regional audiences
Adapting content for regional audiences
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Application
Global business, technology, marketing
Global business, technology, marketing
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Linguistic Style
Part of British English conventions
Part of American English conventions
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
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Localisation and Localization Definitions
Localisation
Cultural Adaptation.
The localisation of the app included cultural references.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Localization
Regional Tailoring.
Software localization included adapting measurement units.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Localisation
Audience Specific.
Effective localisation considers local customs and norms.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Localization
Translation Process.
Localization of the website into Spanish was a success.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Localisation
Translation Process.
Localisation ensures the website reads naturally in French.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
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Localization
Market Customization.
The product's localization was crucial for the U.S. market.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Localisation
Market Customization.
Product localisation is key for European markets.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Localization
Audience Specific.
Good localization addresses regional language variations.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Localisation
Regional Tailoring.
The localisation of the software involved currency conversion.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Localization
To confine or restrict to a particular locality
Localized the infection.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
To attribute to a particular locality
Sought to localize the origin of the rumor.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localisation
(physiology) the principle that specific functions have relatively circumscribed locations in some particular part or organ of the body
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localisation
A determination of the location of something;
He got a good fix on the target
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
(software engineering) The act, process, or result of making a product suitable for use in a particular country or region.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
The act, process, or result of adapting translated text to fit a local culture; domestication.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
(algebra) A systematic method of adding multiplicative inverses to a ring.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
(algebra) A ring of fractions of a given ring, such that the complement of the set of allowed denominators is an ideal.
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
A determination of the location of something;
He got a good fix on the target
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
(physiology) the principle that specific functions have relatively circumscribed locations in some particular part or organ of the body
Sara Rehman
Jan 09, 2023
Localization
Cultural Adaptation.
Localization efforts made the game popular in Japan.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
FAQs
What does localisation involve?
Translation, cultural adaptation, and regional customization.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
What is localisation?
Adapting content to suit local markets, British English spelling.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What’s an example of localisation in practice?
"The software localisation included adapting to local legal requirements."
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Are localisation and localization interchangeable?
Yes, in meaning, but the spelling differs based on language style.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Why is localization important in business?
It makes products relevant and accessible to different markets.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can non-native English speakers use both forms?
Yes, but consistency with one form is advisable.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is localization accepted in British English?
British English generally uses 'localisation'.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What is localization?
The American English spelling for adapting content for regional audiences.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
How is localization used effectively?
"Effective localization requires understanding the target culture."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Which industries use these terms?
Tech, marketing, and global business frequently use these terms.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Do these terms appear in everyday language?
They are more common in professional or global business contexts.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
How does localization impact global sales?
It can significantly increase market penetration and customer satisfaction.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can a small business benefit from localization?
Yes, especially when expanding to new regional markets.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can these terms apply to any form of content?
Yes, they are applicable to digital content, products, services, and more.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can I use localisation in American English?
Typically, 'localization' is preferred in American English contexts.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
How important is localisation in website design?
Crucial for reaching and engaging a diverse audience.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Is one spelling more correct than the other?
No, it depends on the form of English being used.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Should I use localisation in international publications?
It depends on the publication's language guidelines.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Does the meaning change with different spellings?
No, the meaning is the same.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written 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.
Edited 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.
