Because both spellings are used and appear to be correct, many people search for “totalling or totaling.” School assignments, business reports, invoicing, accounting tasks, and online writing frequently exhibit this issue. One additional “l” can cause authors to pause and consider the correct version.
The plain truth is that while both spellings are accurate, they adhere to distinct English norms. The reason for the confusion is that American and British English have distinct spelling rules, particularly when verbs have ends like -ing or -ed.
This article clears up that confusion completely. You will get a quick answer, learn why the spellings differ, and see real-life examples. You’ll also find clear advice on which spelling to use based on your audience. By the end, you’ll confidently choose between totalling or totaling without second-guessing—and write with clarity and professionalism.
Totalling or Totaling Examples
In British English, the preferred spelling is “Totalling” (with double L). It is used when talking about adding numbers together or calculating a final amount. The meaning is the same as American English “totaling,” only the spelling is different.
British English Examples
They finished totalling the bill at the counter.
She is totalling the weekly expenses.
The teacher is totalling the students’ marks.
He spent the evening totalling all the receipts.
The figures are totalling more than expected.
The Final Rule to Remember
The final rule is simple: match the spelling to your audience.
Use “totaling” for American English and “totalling” for British English.
Both spellings mean the same thing, and neither is wrong. Problems only arise when writers mix both forms in one piece of writing. Pick one style, stay consistent, and your writing will look clear, professional, and correct every time.
Use in Business and Accounting
In business and accounting, both “totalling” and “totaling” are correct, but the spelling you choose should match your regional and professional standards. The meaning is the same in all cases: adding numbers to reach a final amount.
In American business documents—such as invoices, financial reports, balance sheets, and tax records—“totaling” is the standard spelling. It is commonly used in accounting software, spreadsheets, and official reports.
Example: The expenses are totaling $25,000 for this quarter.
In British and Commonwealth business writing, “totalling” is preferred. It appears in formal reports, audits, contracts, and financial summaries.
Example: The costs are totalling £25,000 for the year.
The most important rule in business writing is consistency. Mixing both spellings in one report can look unprofessional. Always follow your company’s style guide or the regional market you are working in to maintain clarity and credibility.
Simple Rule for Beginners
For beginners, the rule for totalling or totaling is very easy. Both spellings are correct, and both mean adding numbers to get a final amount. The only difference is where the spelling is used.
If you are writing for an American audience, use “totaling.”
If you are writing for a British or Commonwealth audience, use “totalling.”
You do not need to worry about meaning, grammar, or form. Just choose one spelling based on your audience and use it the same way everywhere in your writing. Avoid mixing both spellings in one document. This simple habit will make your English look clear, professional, and confident.
Quick Answer
Both spellings are correct.
- Totalling → British English
- Totaling → American English
Examples:
- UK: The costs are totalling £500.
- US: The costs are totaling $500.
The Origin of Totalling or Totaling
The word total comes from the Latin totalis, meaning “whole” or “entire.”
The spelling difference appears when adding -ing:
- British English often doubles the final “l”
- American English usually uses one “l”
This pattern also appears in words like:
- Travelling (UK) / Traveling (US)
- Cancelling (UK) / Canceling (US)
The difference is based on spelling rules, not meaning.
British English vs American English Spelling
British and American English follow different rules for adding endings to verbs ending in “l.”
Comparison Table
| Form | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Base | total | total |
| -ing | totalling | totaling |
| -ed | totalled | totaled |
Both versions mean the same thing.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Choose based on your audience:
- United States → Use totaling
- UK, Australia, Canada → Use totalling
- Global or mixed audience → Pick one style and stay consistent
Tip:
Follow the spelling style used by your company, school, or publication.
Common Mistakes with Totalling or Totaling
Mistake 1
❌ Mixing styles in one document
✅ Use only totalling or totaling, not both
Mistake 2
❌ Thinking one spelling is wrong
✅ Both are correct—context matters
Mistake 3
❌ Assuming grammar tools always fix it
✅ Spellcheck may not change regional spelling
Totalling or Totaling in Everyday Examples
Emails
- “The invoice is totaling $1,200.”
- “Expenses are totalling £1,200.”
News
- “Damages are totalling millions.”
Social Media
- “My bills are totaling way too much!”
Formal Writing
- “The report shows costs totalling over €10,000.”
Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows:
- Totaling is more common in the United States
- Totalling is more popular in the UK and Commonwealth countries
The usage depends on regional writing standards, especially in finance, education, and journalism.
Totalling vs Totaling – Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Totalling | Totaling |
|---|---|---|
| English Type | British | American |
| Meaning | Adding amounts | Adding amounts |
| Usage Area | UK, Commonwealth | United States |
| Correct | Yes | Yes |
FAQs: Totalling or Totaling
1. Are totalling and totaling both correct?
Yes. Both are grammatically correct.
2. Do they mean the same thing?
Yes. The meaning is identical.
3. Which spelling is older?
Totalling follows older British spelling rules.
4. Is totaling wrong in the UK?
It’s understood, but totalling is preferred.
5. Is totalling wrong in the US?
It’s understood, but totaling is standard.
6. Which should I use for SEO?
Use the version your target audience searches for.
7. Can I use both in one article?
No. Consistency is important.
Conclusion
Regional spelling conventions, not grammatical errors, are the cause of the confusion between totalling and totaling. Both spellings are accurate and have the same meaning. Where they are employed is the sole distinction.
Totaling is the best option if you are writing for an American readership. Totalling is more appropriate if your readers are in the UK or Commonwealth nations. Consistency is more important in global writing than spelling.
You can write more professionally by being aware of this distinction, particularly when writing about business, academia, and finance. The decision is simple once you understand the rule. Choose the spelling that best suits your target audience, then use it with assurance each and every time.
