Synthesize vs. Synthesise: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sara Rehman || Updated on November 13, 2023
"Synthesize" and "synthesise" are the same in meaning, referring to the process of combining parts to form a whole, differing only in regional spelling: "synthesize" is American English, while "synthesise" is British English.
Key Differences
"Synthesize" is the American English spelling used to describe the process of combining different elements to create something new. "Synthesise" is the British English variant of the same word, carrying the same meaning and usage.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Both "synthesize" and "synthesise" can be used in various contexts, such as chemistry, music, and intellectual discourse, to indicate the creation or formation of something by combining separate elements. The choice between the two spellings depends on the regional language preference.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
In scientific contexts, such as in chemistry, "synthesize" (or "synthesise") refers to the process of creating compounds by chemical reactions. Both spellings are correct and interchangeable, depending on the regional English being used.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 13, 2023
In literature or argumentation, to "synthesize" (or "synthesise") means to integrate ideas or data into a coherent whole. This usage is consistent in both American and British English, with only the spelling differing.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
"Synthesize" and "synthesise" are perfect examples of how English language adapts to different cultural and regional variations, demonstrating the fluidity and adaptability of language.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Regional Preference
Used in the United States
Used in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023
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Synthesize and Synthesise Definitions
Synthesize
In music, to produce sound electronically.
The artist used a synthesizer to synthesize unique sounds.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesise
In electronic music, to generate sounds using a synthesizer.
She used her keyboard to synthesise a range of musical notes.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesize
To integrate different ideas in writing or speech.
Her essay synthesizes theories from different fields.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesise
In science, to create a substance through chemical reaction.
The chemist was able to synthesise a new medication.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesize
In chemistry, to produce a compound by a chemical reaction.
The lab successfully synthesized a new form of plastic.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 13, 2023
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Synthesise
To combine various elements to create something new.
The author aimed to synthesise concepts from different philosophies.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesize
To combine parts into a coherent whole.
The study aims to synthesize the findings from various experiments.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesise
To amalgamate diverse ideas in an argument or discussion.
His thesis synthesises old and new theories.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesize
To form by combining elements logically.
The theory synthesizes historical data with current trends.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesise
To logically construct a theory or idea from various sources.
The researcher synthesised the data into a compelling argument.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Synthesize
To combine so as to form a new, complex product
"His works synthesize photography, painting and linguistic devices" (Paul Taylor).
Sara Rehman
Dec 23, 2022
Synthesise
Combine so as to form a more complex, product;
His operas synthesize music and drama in perfect harmony
Sara Rehman
Dec 23, 2022
Synthesize
(transitive) To combine two or more things to produce a new product.
Sara Rehman
Dec 23, 2022
Synthesize
Combine so as to form a more complex, product;
His operas synthesize music and drama in perfect harmony
Sara Rehman
Dec 23, 2022
FAQs
Do synthesize and synthesise have different meanings in different contexts?
No, their meanings remain consistent across contexts, only the spelling changes.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Is the pronunciation of synthesize and synthesise different?
No, they are pronounced the same way.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Which spelling should I use in academic writing?
Use the spelling consistent with the variety of English you are writing in (American or British).
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Are synthesize and synthesise the same?
Yes, they have the same meaning but different regional spellings.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Can I use synthesize in British English?
It's more common to use "synthesise" in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 13, 2023
Will British readers understand synthesize?
Yes, British readers will understand it as it's a common variance in spelling.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Is synthesize used in American scientific publications?
Yes, "synthesize" is the preferred spelling in American scientific literature.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Can synthesise be used in American English?
It can be used, but "synthesize" is the standard American spelling.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Are there any differences in usage between the two words?
No, their usage is identical; the difference is purely in spelling.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Is synthesize commonly used in American textbooks?
Yes, "synthesize" is commonly used in American educational materials.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 13, 2023
Does the spelling change the word's meaning in any context?
No, the meaning of synthesize and synthesise remains the same regardless of the spelling.
Janet White
Nov 13, 2023
Should I change synthesise to synthesize for an American audience?
Yes, adapting spelling to your audience's version of English is often recommended.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
Can non-native speakers use either spelling?
Non-native speakers should use the spelling consistent with the variety of English they are learning or using.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Is synthesize used in official documents in the U.S.?
Yes, "synthesize" is the preferred spelling in official American documents.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
Is it wrong to use synthesise in an American publication?
It's not wrong, but it's less standard than "synthesize" in American English.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
Are there any variations in the definition of synthesize/synthesise?
No, the definitions are consistent; only the spelling differs based on regional use.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Is there a preferred spelling in international publications?
International publications often choose one version of English and stick to its spelling conventions.
Harlon Moss
Nov 13, 2023
Are there any synonyms for synthesize/synthesise?
Terms like "combine," "integrate," or "amalgamate" can be similar in meaning.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Can I use both spellings interchangeably in a document?
It's best to stick to one spelling for consistency within a single document.
Sara Rehman
Nov 13, 2023
Should I change my spelling of synthesize/synthesise based on my audience?
Yes, adapting your spelling to your audience's regional English is a good practice.
Janet White
Nov 13, 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
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.
