Spilled vs. Spilt: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 4, 2023
"Spilled" and "spilt" both mean to cause or allow liquid to flow over; "spilled" is more common in American English, while "spilt" is more common in British English.
Key Differences
"Spilled" and "spilt" are both past tenses of the verb "spill," which means to cause or allow (liquid) to flow over the edge of its container, especially unintentionally. "Spilled" is the standard past tense form in American English, reflecting a preference for "ed" endings in irregular verbs. In contrast, "spilt" is the standard past tense form in British English, which often retains older forms of words that have been updated in American English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
When someone says they "spilled" the milk, they are typically using American English, and it simply means they have accidentally caused the milk to flow out of its container. On the other hand, if someone says they "spilt" the milk, they are likely using British English to convey the same message. Both words communicate the same occurrence but are regional preferences in verb form.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
In literature, "spilled" might be used in American publications, and the spelling conforms to American English conventions. You'll see it used in sentences like, "He spilled the beans," which means he revealed a secret. "Spilt," however, would appear in British publications, denoting the same action but aligning with British spelling conventions. An example sentence is, "She spilt tea on her dress."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
In everyday conversation, an American English speaker might say, "I spilled water on my laptop," indicating a recent accident involving water and a laptop. A British English speaker, using the same context but different regional English, might say, "I spilt water on my laptop." Both sentences indicate the same unfortunate event and are correct within their respective versions of English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
The words "spilled" and "spilt" not only indicate the physical act of a liquid going where it shouldn't but can also be used metaphorically. In American English, one might say, "They spilled their emotions," suggesting a release of pent-up feelings. In British English, the same sentiment might be expressed as, "They spilt their emotions." Despite the regional differences in spelling, the meaning remains consistent.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Context of Use
Used in both formal and informal American English
Used in both formal and informal British English
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
Consistency
Consistent with American preference for regular past tense forms
Consistent with British use of historical forms
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
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Spilled and Spilt Definitions
Spilled
To flow over the edge of a container by accident.
The water spilled over the rim of the glass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Spilt
To allow liquid to flow out unintentionally.
She spilt wine on the carpet.
Sara Rehman
Oct 21, 2023
Spilled
To let liquid fall out of its container accidentally.
I spilled soup on the stove while cooking.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 21, 2023
Spilt
Used to indicate the accidental release or revelation of something.
Secrets were spilt during the heated discussion.
Janet White
Oct 21, 2023
Spilled
Past tense of "spill," meaning to accidentally pour out liquid.
She spilled coffee on the contract.
Janet White
Oct 21, 2023
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Spilt
Past tense and past participle of "spill" in British English.
He spilt a whole pint of milk.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Spilled
To cause (liquid) to flow out from somewhere.
They spilled oil into the ocean after the shipwreck.
Janet White
Oct 21, 2023
Spilt
To cause liquid to overflow from its container.
The milk was spilt all over the floor.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Spilt
To reveal information unintentionally.
I spilt the news about their surprise party.
Janet White
Oct 21, 2023
Spilled
To scatter (objects) from containment
Spilled the armload of books on the desk.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Spilt
That has been spilled.
Don't cry over spilt milk; tears won't put it back in the glass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Spilled
(Informal) To disclose (something previously unknown); divulge
The witness spilled all the details about the suspect.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Spilled
To pour out or spread beyond limits
Fans spilled onto the playing field.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Spilled
To disseminate information or secrets carelessly or by mistake.
He spilled all the details about their plans.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 21, 2023
FAQs
Can "spilt" be used in American English?
It's understood but less common than "spilled."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Are "spilled" and "spilt" interchangeable?
Yes, but "spilled" is American English, and "spilt" is British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
In literature, would a British author use "spilled" or "spilt"?
Typically, "spilt" would be used, following British conventions.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Do "spilled" and "spilt" carry the same meanings?
Yes, both indicate the accidental flow of liquid or revealing information.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Are there any grammatical differences between "spilled" and "spilt"?
No, the difference is primarily regional spelling.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Can "spilled" be used for situations other than liquids?
Yes, it can also refer to revealing secrets or emotions.
Janet White
Nov 04, 2023
Are there regions in the U.S. where "spilt" is more common?
It's generally less common but may appear in literature or historical contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Can "spilt" be used in a formal context?
Yes, in British English both formal and informal contexts use "spilt."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Is there a difference in pronunciation between "spilled" and "spilt"?
Yes, the end sounds are “-d” for "spilled" and “-t” for "spilt."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Would an American dictionary include "spilt"?
Yes, but it would be identified as the British English form.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Does the use of "spilled" over "spilt" in American English have historical reasons?
Partially, American English tends to regularize irregular past tense forms.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 04, 2023
Is there any difference in formality between "spilled" and "spilt"?
No, the difference is strictly regional, not about formality.
Janet White
Nov 04, 2023
Is "spilt" commonly used in modern British English?
Yes, it's the standard past tense of "spill" in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
How did "spilled" and "spilt" develop differently in American and British English?
It's due to varied spelling conventions and linguistic evolution.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Do British English speakers understand if "spilled" is used instead of "spilt"?
Yes, it's understood as both words are taught and used in media.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Is "spilt" used in Australian and Canadian English?
"Spilt" is common in Australian English, less so in Canadian English.
Sara Rehman
Nov 04, 2023
Is "spilt" considered old-fashioned in American English?
It's less about being old-fashioned and more about regional preference.
Harlon Moss
Nov 04, 2023
Are there idioms where "spilled" and "spilt" are used interchangeably?
Yes, like “don’t cry over spilled/spilt milk.”
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
In academic writing, should I use "spilled" or "spilt"?
Use "spilled" in American English contexts and "spilt" in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
Can "spilt" be seen as a spelling mistake in American English?
Not usually, but "spilled" is the preferred form.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 04, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira 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 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.
