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.
Use “homogeneous” in standard edited English; Cambridge labels “homogenous” a non-standard spelling.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Form | Status in the reviewed evidence | Editing choice |
|---|---|---|
| homogeneous | standard | Use in ordinary edited English. |
| homogenous | non-standard spelling in Cambridge | Replace with “homogeneous” unless faithfully quoting source text. |
Quick tests
Standard-form test
Are you writing ordinary edited prose rather than reproducing an original spelling?
If yes: Use “homogeneous.”
If no: If “homogenous” appears inside a quotation or source title, preserve it only when faithful reproduction matters.
Caveat: Do not silently alter quoted material; the recommendation applies to your own prose.
Examples
The sample was homogeneous throughout.
“Homogeneous” is the standard form.
The sample was homogenous throughout.
Better: The sample was homogeneous throughout.
The reviewed dictionary labels this a non-standard spelling.
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.
- HOMOGENOUS — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Labels homogenous as a non-standard spelling of homogeneous
- HOMOGENEOUS — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Standard adjective meaning composed of similar or same-type parts