Behavior or Behaviour: Understanding the Correct Spelling

Have you ever paused mid-sentence wondering whether to write “behavior” or “behaviour”? You’re not alone. This tiny difference—a single letter—often trips up writers, students, and professionals alike. While it may seem trivial, using the wrong spelling can subtly undermine your credibility. Knowing when to use each form is essential, especially in academic, professional, and international contexts.

In this guide, you’ll learn the history behind the words, the subtle differences between American and British English, when and where to use each spelling, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips to remember them effortlessly. By the end, you’ll never hesitate between “behavior” and “behaviour” again.

The Origins of “Behavior” and “Behaviour”

The words behavior and behaviour share the same Latin root. The term originates from the Old French word behaivour, which means “conduct” or “manner of acting.” This evolved from the verb behaven, literally “to bear oneself,” reflecting how someone presents themselves in society.

Interestingly, the British spelling “behaviour” has remained true to this older form, while the American version “behavior” dropped the “u” as part of the 19th-century trend toward spelling simplification. Figures like Noah Webster, the famous lexicographer, intentionally modified spellings to make American English simpler and more phonetic.

Key takeaway: The spelling difference is historical and rooted in the evolution of language across continents.

American English vs. British English: Spelling Differences

A simple rule often helps: American English favors “-or” endings, while British English retains “-our.”

Here’s a quick table of common differences:

British English	American English	Examples
behaviour	behavior	Her behaviour was exemplary. / Her behavior was exemplary.
colour	color	The colour of the sky is vivid. / The color of the sky is vivid.
honour	honor	He received an honour for bravery. / He received an honor for bravery.
labour	labor	The labour union negotiated better wages. / The labor union negotiated better wages.

For writers, the key is consistency. Mixing British and American spellings in one document looks sloppy and may confuse readers.

When to Use “Behavior” (American English)

In American English, “behavior” is standard in almost all contexts:

• Academic writing: Journals and papers following APA style require the American spelling. Example: “The child’s behavior improved after therapy.”
• Business communication: Reports, emails, and presentations in the U.S. use behavior. Example: “Employee behavior affects team productivity.”
• Government documents: Policies, regulations, and forms in the U.S. follow American conventions.

Tips to remember:

• If your audience is American, default to behavior.
• Use dictionaries like Merriam-Webster to confirm spelling.

When to Use “Behaviour” (British English)

In countries that follow British English—such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand—the spelling “behaviour” is standard.

• Academic context: British universities expect this spelling in essays, reports, and dissertations. Example: “The patient’s behaviour indicated early signs of anxiety.”
• Journalism and literature: Newspapers like The Guardian and literary works follow British conventions.
• Professional writing: Corporate documents, HR manuals, and official letters in the UK and Commonwealth countries use behaviour.

Regional notes:

• Canada is flexible; both behavior and behaviour are acceptable, though Canadian publications lean slightly toward behaviour.
• Australia and New Zealand almost exclusively use behaviour.

Common Grammar and Usage Tips

Understanding the spelling is just one piece of the puzzle. Correct usage involves grammar and context too:

• Countable vs uncountable: Behavior can be both countable (“His behaviors were odd”) and uncountable (“Good behavior is rewarded”).
• Adjective pairing: Common pairings include good, bad, unusual, aggressive, or social behavior/behaviour.
• Avoid redundancy: Instead of saying “behavior patterns of behavior”, just say “behavior patterns.”

Quick tip for non-native speakers: Use simple sentences like “His behaviour was polite” or “Her behavior improved” before experimenting with more complex structures.

Spelling in Professional and Academic Writing

Professional and academic writing demands precision. Here’s what you need to know:

• APA Style: American English, so behavior is correct.
• MLA Style: Typically follows the American convention but allows flexibility based on the publication’s audience.
• Chicago Manual of Style: Prefers American English for U.S. publications.
• Oxford Style Guide: British English, so behaviour is standard.

Consistency is crucial. If you start with behavior, stick to it throughout your paper or report. Mixing forms can reduce credibility.

Example:

Correct (American English): “The student’s behavior during the experiment was exemplary.”
Correct (British English): “The student’s behaviour during the experiment was exemplary.”
Incorrect: “The student’s behavior during the experiment was exemplary, and his behaviour improved over time.”

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

Even seasoned writers make mistakes with behavior/behaviour. Common pitfalls include:

• Mixing US and UK spellings in one document.
• Assuming one spelling is “more correct.” Both are correct; context matters.
• Confusing synonyms: Words like conduct, demeanor, or manner can replace behavior/behaviour but have nuanced meanings.
• Autocorrect traps: Word processors sometimes auto-replace spelling based on language settings.

Strategy to avoid errors:

1. Decide on a style guide before writing.
2. Proofread carefully or use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid with the correct language setting.
3. Keep a quick reference table nearby.

Fun Facts About “Behavior”/“Behaviour”

• Most misused English words: Surveys show “behavior/behaviour” ranks high in common spelling mistakes.
• Google Ngram Viewer: Shows “behavior” dominates in American publications after 1800, while “behaviour” remains dominant in British texts.
• Pop culture: Many American films and TV shows use behavior, whereas British shows like Doctor Who or The Crown use behaviour.

Quick Memory Tips and Tricks

Here are some easy ways to remember which spelling to use:

• American English = simpler = “-or.”
• British English = keep the “u” = “-our.”
• Mnemonic: “U in behaviour is for the UK.”
• Visual trick: Think of Canadian, Australian, and British texts—they almost always keep the “u.”

Extra tip: Create a mini cheat sheet with common -or/-our words for quick reference.

FAQ

Is behavior spelled differently in Canada?

Both spellings are accepted, but behaviour is slightly more common in Canadian publications.

Can I use British spelling in American publications?

Generally, no. American publications expect behavior. Mixing spellings may be flagged as errors.

What about other “-or/-our” words?

Examples: color/colour, honor/honour, labor/labour. Same rules apply—follow the audience and style guide.

Conclusion

Choosing between behavior and behaviour isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about context and audience. Americans write behavior, while the UK and other Commonwealth countries stick with behaviour. Pay attention to style guides, stay consistent, and use examples to guide your writing.

With these tips, tables, and mnemonics, you can confidently use behavior or behaviour in any context, impress your readers, and avoid common pitfalls. Remember: consistency and audience awareness are your best allies.