Learned vs. Learnt. What’s the Difference?

Introduction

The word "learned" is an adjective derived from the verb "to learn." It first appeared in English in the late 14th century and has been used ever since. The word "learnt" is a variation of "learned" that appeared in the early 16th century.

The words “learned” and “learnt” can be confusing to anyone trying to master English grammar. However, the two words mean the same thing. The key difference in usage is dependent on the type of English spoken:

• American English
• Canadian English
• British English

There is one exception to the rule when “learned” and “learnt” cannot be used in the same manner. We're going to explain the key times when to use “learned” and “learnt,” plus the one exception to the rule below.

When to Use “Learned” and When to Use “Learnt”

Learned vs. Learnt. What’s the Difference?

English can be a tricky language. Because there are different variations of the language, some words may be spelled differently and have the same meaning. The words “learned” and “learnt” are great examples.

• “Learned” and “learnt” share the same meaning.
• The word you use will depend on whether you are using American English or British English.
• “Learned” is the spelling used in American English.
• “Learnt” is the preferred spelling in British English.

Both “learned” and “learnt” are perfectly acceptable and can typically be used interchangeably.

However, there is one instance where “learned” is the only correct choice. That instance is when you are using “learned” as an adjective.

“Learned” can be used to describe a person who is highly knowledgeable or has an extensive education. In this case, learned would be the appropriate choice, and it would be pronounced as two syllables (LER-ned).
 

Examples of When to Use “Learned” and “Learnt”

Using “learned” and “learnt” is a part of daily conversation. Mastering English as a second language requires you to learn these critical differences in the way words are said around the world.  Examples of these two words in context include:

• Today, I learned/learnt the difference between two words in English.
• Jessica read the newspaper and learned/learnt that her favorite singer is from her hometown.
• Maria learned/learnt about the Civil War in her history class.

However, the one time that you cannot use these two words interchangeably, include:

• Jessica is a “learned” woman.
• His opinions are always insightful, reflecting a "learned" perspective.
• The book was written by a "learned" professor of linguistics.

In general, when you’re writing or speaking to someone in English, you want to use one form of English. For example, you don’t want to mix American and British English spellings together when writing to avoid confusion.

Final Thoughts: “Learned” vs. “Learnt”

Understanding the difference between "learned" and "learnt" is important for effective communication in English. It is essential to remember that "learned" is the American or Canadian English spelling of the word, and "learnt" is the British English spelling. Both spellings are accepted in these three countries, and both words mean the same, but the one exception to the rule is when you say someone is learned in the adjective form.