Which is the correct spelling: "dependant" or "dependent"? Thank you!
2023-06-26
This is what goPenpal answered
Both "dependant" and "dependent" are correct spellings, but their usage varies. In American English, "dependent" is typically used as both a noun and adjective. For example, one may say "He is dependent on his parents" (adjective) or talk about "tax deductions for dependents" (noun).
However, in British English, "dependent" is the adjective, while "dependant" is the noun. So in the UK, you might say "He is dependent on his parents" and "She is a dependant of her parents." It's a subtle, yet important distinction between American and British English spellings and usage, like the difference between color and colour, or center and centre.
So to answer your question, both spellings are correct. The choice depends on which form of English you are using and in what context.
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