The regional split is sense-sensitive: Cambridge uses “program” for computer software, while “program” is also the US/Australian spelling of UK “programme” for many planned activities and broadcasts.
ReviewedEvidence2 sourcesSectionEnglish Usage
Quick answer
For computer software, use “program.” For many non-computing plan/broadcast senses, use “program” in US English and “programme” in UK English.
Key details
Confusion Familyregional-spelling
Rule Familyregional-orthography
Termsprogram, programme
Variant ScopeThe regional split is sense-sensitive: Cambridge uses “program” for computer software, while “program” is also the US/Australian spelling of UK “programme” for many planned activities and broadcasts.
Further guidance
Core difference
Use “program” for computer software. For a planned series or broadcast, US English normally uses “program” while UK English normally uses “programme.”
Fast Test
Match the form to the intended meaning, regional convention, or required house style, then keep that choice consistent.
Variant Boundary
Do not mechanically change every British “program” to “programme”: the computing noun remains “program,” and verb treatment can depend on sense and house style.
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.
“Aging” and “ageing” are established regional spellings. Cambridge labels aging as US and ageing as UK, so the choice should follow the intended variety or house style.
“Analyze” is the standard US spelling and “analyse” is the standard UK spelling of the same verb. The distinction is regional spelling; use the form that matches the target variety or editorial style.
“Behavior” is the US spelling and “behaviour” is the UK spelling. Use the form consistent with the regional variety or editorial style of the document.
Both “canceled” and “cancelled” are standard past-tense spellings of “cancel”; US English usually uses one l, while UK English normally uses two. Cambridge records the -ll- forms and notes that US English usually uses -l-, so the difference should be presented as a regional preference rather than a correctness split.
