Have you ever typed totaling in a document, only for your spellchecker to underline it and suggest totalling instead—or vice versa? You’re not alone. These two spellings confuse writers, students, editors, and even native English speakers every day. They look nearly identical, sound exactly the same, and mean the same thing, yet people still debate which one is “correct.”The confusion usually comes down to regional English rules, not meaning. Depending on whether you’re writing for an American or British audience, one spelling will be preferred over the other. Although they look/sound similar, they serve completely different purposes.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn the exact difference between totaling vs totalling, how each spelling is used, where it’s accepted, real-life examples, grammar rules, memory tricks, and a clear comparison table. By the end, you’ll know exactly which spelling to use—and when. ✍️📘
What Is Totaling?
Totaling (with one L) is the American English spelling of the present participle and gerund form of the verb total.
Meaning
➡️ Totaling means adding numbers together to get a final sum or amounting to a specific total.
It can also be used figuratively to describe something that adds up to a result, such as damage, cost, or time.
How It’s Used
In American English, totaling is used as:
- A verb (present participle)
- A gerund (verb acting as a noun)
It follows standard American spelling rules, which typically avoid doubling consonants unless stressed.
Where It’s Used
- United States
- American-based publications
- US academic writing
- American businesses and legal documents
- International writing that follows US English standards
If your audience is American, totaling is always the correct choice.
Examples in Sentences
- “The expenses are totaling more than we expected.”
- “She spent the afternoon totaling the monthly sales figures.”
- “The damage is totaling thousands of dollars.”
- “Totaling the scores took longer than planned.”
In each case, totaling describes the act of adding up or reaching a sum.
Short Usage Note
American English follows a simplified spelling system influenced by Noah Webster’s reforms in the 19th century. Under these rules, verbs like total do not double the final consonant, which is why totaling keeps a single L.
What Is Totalling?
Totalling (with double LL) is the British English spelling of the same verb form.
Meaning
➡️ Totalling also means adding numbers together or amounting to a total. The meaning is identical to totaling—only the spelling changes.
How It’s Used
In British English, totalling functions as:
- A present participle
- A gerund
- A descriptive verb form in formal and informal writing
British spelling rules usually double the final consonant when adding -ing, even if the stress isn’t on the last syllable.
Where It’s Used
Totalling is standard in:
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Australia
- New Zealand
- India
- Pakistan
- South Africa
- Other Commonwealth countries
If you’re writing for a UK or Commonwealth audience, totalling is the correct and expected spelling.
Examples in Sentences
- “The bills are totalling over £2,000.”
- “He is totalling the expenses for the project.”
- “The repairs are totalling more than anticipated.”
- “Totalling the votes took several hours.”
These sentences follow British spelling conventions and would look natural to UK readers.
Regional Note
British English doubles the L in many verbs before adding -ing or -ed, such as travelling, cancelling, and labelling. Totalling follows this same pattern.
Key Differences Between Totaling and Totalling
The difference between totaling vs totalling is not about meaning—it’s about regional spelling standards.
Quick Summary
- Totaling = American English spelling
- Totalling = British English spelling
- Meaning is exactly the same
- Pronunciation is identical
- Choice depends on audience and style guide
Comparison Table
| Feature | Totaling | Totalling |
|---|---|---|
| Spelling Style | American English | British English |
| Number of “L”s | One L | Two Ls |
| Meaning | Adding up / amounting to a total | Adding up / amounting to a total |
| Pronunciation | Same | Same |
| Used In | USA, American publications | UK, Commonwealth countries |
| Grammar Role | Verb / gerund | Verb / gerund |
| Considered Correct? | Yes (US) | Yes (UK) |
Real-Life Conversation Examples
Dialogue 1
A: “My editor changed totaling to totalling. Is that a mistake?”
B: “No, you’re writing for a UK audience.”
🎯 Lesson: Editors adjust spelling based on regional English rules.
Dialogue 2
A: “Why does my spellchecker flag totalling as wrong?”
B: “Because it’s set to American English.”
🎯 Lesson: Spellcheckers follow the language setting you choose.
Dialogue 3
A: “Do totaling and totalling mean different things?”
B: “No, they mean the same—just different spellings.”
🎯 Lesson: Meaning never changes; only spelling does.
Dialogue 4
A: “Which one should I use for my blog?”
B: “Use totaling for US readers and totalling for UK readers.”
🎯 Lesson: Always write for your target audience.
Dialogue 5
A: “Can I mix both spellings in one article?”
B: “Better not—it looks inconsistent.”
🎯 Lesson: Consistency matters more than personal preference.
When to Use Totaling vs Totalling
Choosing between totaling vs totalling is simple once you know the rules.
Use Totaling When:
✔️ Writing for an American audience
✔️ Publishing on US-based websites
✔️ Following AP, Chicago, or MLA (US) style guides
✔️ Your document uses American spelling throughout
Examples:
- “The costs are totaling more than $10,000.”
- “She is totaling the final invoice.”
- “Totaling the hours helped clarify the budget.”
Use Totalling When:
✔️ Writing for a British or Commonwealth audience
✔️ Following UK academic or professional standards
✔️ Using British spellings like colour, favour, travelling
Examples:
- “The expenses are totalling over £5,000.”
- “He is totalling the figures for the report.”
- “Totalling the data took all morning.”
Simple Memory Trick 🧠
- One L = One country (USA) → totaling
- Two Ls = UK style → totalling
Or remember:
➡️ American English prefers shorter spellings.
Fun Facts & History
1️⃣ Why the Spellings Split
American English spelling was standardized in the early 1800s to simplify written language. British English kept traditional rules, including consonant doubling. That’s why totaling vs totalling still coexist today.
2️⃣ Pronunciation Never Changed
Despite different spellings, both words are pronounced exactly the same:
👉 “TOH-tuhl-ing”
Spelling affects writing—not speech.
Conclusion
The difference between totaling vs totalling is purely regional. Totaling is the correct spelling in American English, while totalling is preferred in British and Commonwealth English. They share the same meaning, pronunciation, and grammatical function—the only thing that changes is the number of Ls. Once you understand your audience and stay consistent with your spelling style, the confusion disappears completely. Whether you’re adding numbers, calculating costs, or writing professionally, this rule will always guide you. Next time someone uses these two words, you’ll know exactly what they mean! ✅✍️
Discover More Articles
Dandruff or Lice? Symptoms, Causes, and Key Differences
Coke or Pepsi: Taste Test, History, and Brand Rivalry Explained
Feening or Feigning? Meanings, Differences, and Correct Usage
