Learned or Learnt: Which is the Right Word?

Have you ever stumbled upon the word learned and learnt and wondered which on to use? Language leaners find it challenging which one should they use: learned or learnt.

The confusion between learned and learnt is a common one, especially among English learned and even native speakers. Both words originate from the verb learn but they are used differently depending on the region and context.

In this article, you will learn the difference between learned or learnt. In addition, you will find useful examples from different context that can help you understand the use of learned or learnt in your English communication.

Learned or Learnt: Which One is Correct?

Learned is the standard past tense and past participle form of the verb learn in American English. It is used to describe actions that were completed in the past.

Example:

• I have learned a lot this year.

Beyond its role as a verb, learned can also function as an adjective. In this context, it describes someone who is highly educated or knowledgeable. 

Examples:

• She is a learned scholar.

Learnt

Learnt is the past tense and past participle form of learn predominantly used in British English. It carries the same meaning as learned but is preferred in informal writing and speech in the UK, Australia, and some other English-speaking regions.

For example:

• I have learnt a new skill. (British English)
• I have learned a new skill (American English).

Although learnt is less common in American English, it is still grammatically correct and occasionally used.

Learned or Learnt: Which One Should You Choose?

The usage of learned or learnt depends on the regional preference or context. 

In American English:

In American English, learned is the most commonly used. It is the usage as past and past participle form of the verb learn. For examples:

• I learned how to cook last year. 
• He has learned to play the guitar. 

In British English:

In contrast, learnt is the preferred form in British English, especially in informal contexts. For examples:

• She learnt piano when she was a child.
• We have learnt a lot from our mistakes.

The choice between learned and learnt can vary widely depending on the region. In countries where British English is more influential, such as Australia and South Africa, learnt is commonly used. 

However, in regions influenced by American English, such as the Philippines and parts of Canada, learned is more prevalent.

Learned or Learnt Used in Different Contexts

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

Learned is typically favored in formal writing, regardless of the variant of English used. This formality is due to learned aligning with regular verb conjugation patterns that are generally preferred in formal English. 

Conversely, Learnt might be more commonly found in informal writing or speech within British English contexts.

Written vs. Spoken English

In spoken English, both learned and learnt can be used interchangeably, depending on the speaker’s regional background,d. However, in written English, especially in academic or professional documents, learned is often the preferred choice to maintain a more formal tone. for instance.

• I have learned a great deal from this experience. (formal)
• I learnt that the hard way! (informal)

Examples of Learned or Learnt

• He had learned the value of hard work and preseverance.
• She learnt to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.

Examples from Modern Media

• Scientists have learned new techniques to combat the disease. 
• I have learnt some great tips from improving my photography skills.

Conclusion

Learned and learnt are both acceptable past tense forms of the verb learn. Their usage largely depends on regional preferences and the context in which they are used. 

Learned is the preferred form in American English and in formal contexts worldwide. However, learnt is more commonly used in British English and informal settings. 

Therefore, learning the differences between both words is essential for effective communication and avoiding common errors in writing and speaking.

I hope this article helped you to learn the meanings and usage of learned and learnt, and the difference between them. Both words are acceptable however, learned is used mostly in American English while learnt is used in British English.

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