The confusion between analyses and analyzes is common because both spellings appear correct and are widely used. The reason lies in British vs American English spelling rules.
Students, professionals, and writers search this term to avoid mistakes in exams, emails, reports, and online content. The good news is that the rule is simple once you understand it.
This article explains the difference clearly, shows when each spelling is correct, and helps you choose the right one for your audience so you never hesitate again.
Analyses or Analyzes – Quick Answer
Both analyses and analyzes are correct spellings, but they are used in different forms of English.
- Analyses → British English spelling
Example: She analyses the data every week. - Analyzes → American English spelling
Example: He analyzes the results carefully.
The meaning is the same in both cases. The difference is regional spelling, not grammar or meaning.
The Origin of Analyses or Analyzes
The word comes from the Greek word analysis, meaning “a breaking up” or “loosening.” It entered English through Latin and French, keeping its academic and scientific meaning.
Originally, English used -yse endings for many verbs, influenced by French and Greek. Over time, British English kept the -yse spelling, while American English simplified it to -yze.
This split happened in the 18th and 19th centuries, largely due to American lexicographer Noah Webster, who promoted simpler, more phonetic spellings in the United States.
That is why we now have pairs like:
- analyse / analyze
- analyses / analyzes
- organise / organize
Both forms share the same root and meaning. Only the spelling changed based on region.
British English vs American English Spelling
British and American English follow different spelling conventions for many verbs ending in -ise / -ize or -yse / -yze.
Key Difference
- British English: analyses
- American English: analyzes
Comparison Table
| Aspect | British English | American English |
| Correct spelling | analyses | analyzes |
| Dictionary standard | Oxford, Cambridge | Merriam-Webster |
| Used in | UK, Ireland, Australia | USA |
| Academic meaning | Same | Same |
| Grammar role | Verb (third-person singular) | Verb (third-person singular) |
Both spellings are correct within their regions.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
The correct choice depends on your audience.
Use analyzes if:
- You are writing for a US audience
- Your style guide is APA or Merriam-Webster
- You write for American companies or universities
Use analyses if:
- You are writing for the UK or Commonwealth
- Your style guide is Oxford or Cambridge
- Your readers expect British spelling
Global or Mixed Audience
If your audience is international, choose one spelling and stay consistent. Do not mix analyses and analyzes in the same document.
Common Mistakes with Analyses or Analyzes
Many errors come from mixing forms or misunderstanding grammar.
❌ Common Errors
- Mixing British and American spelling in one text
- Writing analysises (incorrect plural form)
- Using analyse with analyzes in the same sentence
✅ Correct Usage
- British: She analyses the report.
- American: She analyzes the report.
Consistency matters more than the spelling choice.
Analyses or Analyzes in Everyday Examples
Emails
- British: She analyses customer feedback weekly.
- American: She analyzes customer feedback weekly.
News
- British outlet: The expert analyses the situation.
- American outlet: The expert analyzes the situation.
Social Media
- He analyzes trends better than anyone.
- She analyses patterns in user behavior.
Formal Writing
- Research papers, reports, and theses use one form based on region and style guide.
Analyses or Analyzes – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows that:
- Analyzes is more popular in the United States
- Analyses dominates in the UK, Australia, and Europe
- Globally, analyzes appears slightly more due to US internet traffic
In academic and professional contexts, usage follows regional spelling rules rather than popularity.
Comparison Table: Analyses or Analyzes
| Feature | Analyses | Analyzes |
| English type | British | American |
| Correct spelling | Yes | Yes |
| Meaning | Examines carefully | Examines carefully |
| Common regions | UK, Commonwealth | USA |
| Professional use | Yes | Yes |
FAQs:
1. Are analyses and analyzes both correct?
Yes. Both are correct spellings depending on regional English.
2. Is one more formal than the other?
No. They are equally formal and professional.
3. Which spelling is better for SEO?
Use the spelling your audience searches for most.
4. Can I mix both in one article?
No. Choose one and stay consistent.
5. Is analyses plural?
No. Here, analyses is a verb, not a plural noun.
6. Do dictionaries accept both spellings?
Yes. Major dictionaries list both as correct.
7. Which spelling should students use?
Follow your school or exam board’s style guide.
Conclusion:
The confusion between analyses and analyzes is simple to fix once you know the rule. Both spellings are correct and have the same meaning the difference is regional usage.
Analyses is preferred in British English, while analyzes is standard in American English. The key is consistency. Choose the spelling that matches your audience and use it throughout your writing.
Once you understand this, the choice becomes easy and confident every time.
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I’m American writer known for precise, economical use of language and strong narrative voice. My work is frequently studied for sentence rhythm, word choice, and how meaning is shaped through grammar, making it valuable for close reading and English comparison studies.
