What is the story about?
Ever stopped mid-sentence and wondered if the words you are using are grammatically correct or not? Many people get that feeling while using the word 'burned'
in their daily usage. Many people assume that 'burned' is a a grammatically wrong word, while other argue that there is no difference between the two. What is the truth? Let's find out. First and foremost, let's break the assumption that either of these words are wrong. Both burned and burnt are acceptable forms of burn, that can be used as adjectives, and both are acceptable as the past tense.
The difference between burnt and burned
Both the words 'burned' and 'burnt' are grammatically correct, but people often use 'burnt' if they are describing things. For example, I burnt rice while cooking; the toaster burnt my bread. On the other hand, many use 'burned' as a verb, especially in American English. However, in British English, 'burned' and 'burnt' are used interchangeably for both the verb and the adjective.
Interestingly, there was another form of 'burnt' or 'burned'. People in and before the 1500s reportedly used 'brent' as a past tense for 'burn' too. However, the word seems to have faded after the 1500s. Also, it is believed that before the sixteenth century, burned was the only form, and it was only later that some people replaced 'ed' with 't', and 'burnt' became more popular (especially in America).
Verb Forms (American vs British / Contextual Use)
- Burned / Burnt
Burned – preferred in American English (verb)
Burnt – common in British English and as an adjective (burnt toast) - Learned / Learnt
Learned – American English
Learnt – British English - Dreamed / Dreamt
Dreamed – American English
Dreamt – British English - Spelled / Spelt
Spelled – American English
Spelt – British English (also a type of grain) - Kneeled / Knelt
Kneeled – American English
Knelt – British English
Adjective vs Verb Preference
- Lit / Lighted
Lit – common and informal
Lighted – formal or descriptive contexts - Dived / Dove
Dived – standard and British
Dove – informal American usage
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