English UsageComparison guide

Homogenous vs. Homogeneous

“Homogeneous” is the standard adjective for something consisting of similar or same-type parts. Cambridge specifically labels “homogenous” as a non-standard spelling rather than an ordinary regional variant.

Quick answer

Use “homogeneous” in standard edited English; Cambridge labels “homogenous” a non-standard spelling.

Key details

Confusion Familystandard-vs-nonstandard-spelling
Noun Variant ScopeCambridge labels “homogenous” a non-standard spelling of “homogeneous,” whose standard meaning is consisting of similar or same-type parts.
Rule Familystandard-orthography
Termshomogenous, homogeneous

Further guidance

Core difference

“Homogeneous” is the standard spelling; Cambridge labels “homogenous” a non-standard spelling of it.

Fast Test

For edited standard English, choose “homogeneous.”

Variant Boundary

This pair is not treated as an ordinary US/UK spelling variation by the cited dictionary.

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.

  1. HOMOGENOUS — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Labels homogenous as a non-standard spelling of homogeneous
  2. HOMOGENEOUS — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Standard adjective meaning composed of similar or same-type parts

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