Aluminum vs Aluminium
What’s the difference between them?
Aluminum
Meaning:
Rare spelling of 'aluminium.'
Examples:
1. Aluminum is a common metal used in the aerospace industry.
2. The aluminum cans are easy to recycle.
3. The aluminum foil is a great way to keep food warm.
Aluminium
Meaning:
a chemical element with symbol Al and atomic number 13. It is a silvery-white, soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal.
Examples:
1. Aluminum is used in a variety of products from bikes to aircraft.
2. The aluminum foil was crinkled up and thrown away.
3. The newly constructed building was made with a sleek aluminum frame.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Aluminum
1. Aluminium
2. Metal
3. Alloy
4. Lightweight material
5. Foiled metal
1. Iron
2. Steel
3. Copper
4. Lead
5. Plastic/Synthetic Material
Aluminium
1. Aluminium
2. Metal
3. Alloy
4. Lightweight material
5. Foiled metal
1. Iron
2. Steel
3. Copper
4. Lead
5. Plastic/Synthetic Material
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Aluminum", "Aluminium".
1. Both spellings are correct.
2. Due to evolution of English, 'Aluminium' became more widely recognized spelling.
3. When in doubt, use 'aluminium.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
Aluminum is a rare spelling that is used to describe a type of metal with great strength and light weight, which is why it is a popular choice for items such as ladders, aeroplanes, and cans.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
Aluminium is often used to describe the same type of metal as Aluminum, but such spelling is more widely recognized in modern English.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. Aluminium is pronounced with multiple syllables, and is often stress on the third syllable, whereas Aluminum is usually pronounced with only one syllable.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
Both words are correct, so there are no common mistakes in their usage. However, it is better to refer to 'aluminium' since this spelling is more widely recognized.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The ____________ in this aircraft was recycled from old drink cans.
2. The ____________ is used to make foil and other lightweight materials.
3. Most cooking pans are made from ____________ these days.
4. The new roof was constructed with ____________ sheeting to save weight.
5. The ____________ frame of the car was much lighter than its predecessor.
6. The ____________ MacBook is super lightweight and portable.
1. Aluminum
Explanation: This is the American spelling of the word, which is more commonly used in North America. The word refers to a metallic element commonly used in manufacturing.
2. Aluminium
Explanation: This is the British spelling of the same word, which is more commonly used in the UK and other English-speaking countries. It is also the official spelling according to the IUPAC.
3. Aluminum
Explanation: This is the American spelling of the word, which is more commonly used in North America. Aluminum is used to make cookware, such as pans and pots, and can be used to make them lightweight and durable.
4. Aluminium
Explanation: This is the British spelling of the same word, which is more commonly used in the UK and other English-speaking countries. Aluminium sheeting is used to construct roofs because it is lightweight and durable.
5. Aluminum
Explanation: This is the American spelling of the word, which is more commonly used in North America. Aluminum is used in car manufacturing to create lightweight frames.
6. Aluminum
Explanation: This is the American spelling of the word, which is more commonly used in North America. Aluminum is used to make the MacBook, which is a lightweight laptop computer produced by Apple Inc.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.