Analogue vs. Analog
The two spellings normally express the same relevant meanings. Choose the form required by audience or house style and keep it consistent; neither spelling is a substitute for the separate adjective “analogous.”
“Analogue” is the usual UK spelling and “analog” the usual US spelling in the reviewed signal, recording, and counterpart senses.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning / context | Use | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| UK English | analogue | Use the usual UK spelling. |
| US English | analog | Use the usual US spelling. |
| mixed or international publication | follow house style | Choose one regional convention consistently for the relevant senses. |
Quick tests
Decision test
Are you choosing between the UK and US spellings of the same analogue/analog sense?
If yes: Use “analogue” for UK style or “analog” for US style.
If no: If you mean “similar or comparable,” you may need the different word “analogous.”
Caveat: Treat this as a regional spelling choice in the reviewed senses; do not confuse either spelling with “analogous.”
Examples
The studio still uses analogue equipment.
The UK spelling fits UK English.
The device converts the analog signal to digital data.
The US spelling fits US English.
The editor standardized analog throughout the US edition.
House-style consistency is the practical editorial choice.
Further guidance
Core difference
Use the usual UK spelling.
Fast Test
Use “analogue” for UK style or “analog” for US style. If you mean “similar or comparable,” you may need the different word “analogous.”
Usage Boundary
Treat this as a regional spelling choice in the reviewed senses; do not confuse either spelling with “analogous.”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- analogue (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Analogue is the UK spelling in signal/recording and counterpart senses; Cambridge identifies US analog as the spelling counterpart.
- analog (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Analog is the US spelling; Cambridge identifies UK analogue as the counterpart in the same adjective/noun senses.