The spelling of the color grey versus gray has long been a source of confusion and debate in American English. Both spellings are considered correct and interchangeable in American writing and publishing. However, there are some subtle differences in usage between the British spelling “grey” and the American spelling “gray.” Understanding the distinctions can help writers choose the more appropriate spelling for their audience and context. This article will examine the history and current status of these color spellings in American English.
British versus American spelling
In British English, the standard spelling is “grey” while “gray” is considered a variant. In American English, both spellings are common and accepted. When American English first diverged from British English in the 18th century, early American dictionaries and publications tended to prefer “gray.” Noah Webster’s dictionary of American English, published in 1828, codified “gray” as the standard American spelling.
| British English | American English |
|---|---|
| grey (standard) | gray or grey (both accepted) |
However, over time “grey” regained popularity in the United States, likely due to the continued influence of British English. So both spellings now appear regularly in American publications and media.
Current usage in America
Looking at current usage, “gray” remains the more common choice in American English. Data from the Corpus of Contemporary American English shows:
| Spelling | Frequency |
|---|---|
| gray | 75% |
| grey | 25% |
“Gray” is the default spelling used in American dictionaries, media outlets like The New York Times, scientific writing, product names, and more. However, “grey” occurs frequently as well. It is an accepted variant in all major American dictionaries. Some industries tend to favor “grey” – for instance, it is standard in the fashion industry. And many American writers choose to use the British “grey” spelling in their work.
So ultimately both spellings are considered correct in American English, despite the preference for “gray.” The key is consistency. Writers should choose one spelling and stick with it within a given text, rather than alternating randomly between “gray” and “grey.”
Regional differences
Another factor to consider is region. While there are not strict rules, some tendencies emerge in the regional usage of these spellings:
| Region | Typical spelling |
|---|---|
| Western U.S. | gray |
| Eastern U.S. | grey |
| Midwest U.S. | gray |
The East Coast of the U.S., particularly the Northeast, tends to use “grey” more often. This likely reflects the historical influence of British spelling on these areas. Meanwhile, the West Coast and Midwest more often opt for “gray.”
Preferences by genre and field
Certain writing genres and academic fields demonstrate preferences in whether they use “gray” versus “grey.”
| Genre/Field | Typical spelling |
|---|---|
| Journalism | gray |
| Academic writing | gray |
| Nonfiction books | gray |
| Fashion writing | grey |
| Literature | grey |
News media, research journals, and most nonfiction books tend to use “gray” more often. While literature and creative works may opt for “grey” to match the British spelling that is familiar to many readers.
Consensus preferences
Looking at all the evidence, some high-level guidelines emerge:
– In formal writing, especially for publications, media, and academia, use “gray” as the standard American spelling. It is the safer option.
– In literary or creative works, either spelling is fine. “Grey” may be preferred by writers seeking a more British style.
– Be consistent! Stick with one spelling throughout a given text.
– On the U.S. East Coast and in fashion writing, “grey” occurs more often.
– In the Western and Midwestern U.S., “gray” is markedly more common.
So rather than definitive rules, these are consensus patterns seen in the usage of each spelling. following them can help American writers select the variant most appropriate for their context and audience.
Etymology of grey and gray
The origins of these color words reveal insights into their different spellings:
– Grey – derives from the Old English word “grǣg.” It has Germanic roots and is related to the Old Saxon “grāw” and Old High German “grāo.” The ‘e’ spelling reflects its sound and spelling history in Old and Middle English.
– Gray – an alternative spelling that arose in the late medieval period. It originated from Norman scribes introducing the French soft ‘g’ sound spelled with a ‘y’ rather than ‘e.’ The Norman spelling gained prominence after the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
So “grey” has older English roots while “gray” stems from Anglo-Norman and Old French influence on the language. Both have coexisted in the English lexicon for centuries. Their continued use in modern American English preserves these dual origins.
How to remember gray versus grey
With two very similar spellings, it can be tricky to remember which variant to use. Here are some mnemonic devices:
– “A” for America: Since “gray” is the more common spelling in American English, remember it has the American “a.”
– “E” for England: “Grey” has the “e” used in British English.
– Think of related words: Other color words like “beige” and “charcoal” can remind you the “a” spelling is normal.
– Say it out loud: The long “a” sound in “grAy” sounds American, while the long “e” in “grEy” sounds British.
– Picture gray skies or grey hairs: Envisioning the actual colors in different contexts can help cement the spellings.
So if you associate “gray” with America and other “a” words, and “grey” with England, it can help you quickly decide which one to use in your writing.
Conclusion
In summary, both spellings are common and accepted in modern American English, which gives writers flexibility. Following conventions like using “gray” in formal publications and the media, while allowing “grey” in fiction, can help ensure your choice matches the context. While individual style is most important, there are some broad regional spelling preferences to consider between the East Coast, Midwest, and West. Knowing the origins and mnemonics for “gray” versus “grey” makes selecting the right variant for your audience easier. So be confident choosing either one – unless consistency within a text is vital, both spellings properly convey the color in American English.
