"Spoiled" vs. "Spoilt" in the English Grammar (2024)

What Is Their Main Difference?

'Spoiled' and 'spoilt' are alternative spellings of the simple past and past participles of the verb 'spoil'. The difference between the two spellings is mainly a matter of regional and cultural preference.

Differences

In American English, 'spoiled' is the more commonly used spelling, while in British English, 'spoilt' is more common. However, both spellings are considered correct and interchangeable.Check out the examples below:

These spoiled children make me wanna throw up.

The vacation was spoilt by bad weather.

Similarities

Both are past forms of the verb 'spoil'. They describe something that has been negatively affected or damaged due to a specific cause, or a person who has been negatively affected by excessive indulgence or pampering. Look below:

I don't want a spoiled girl like you to be my friend.

Have I spoilt your party?

Are They Interchangeable?

Most native speakers use them interchangeably. Compare:

✓ I'm sorry to have spoilt your weekend but we're in the middle of a crisis.

✓ I'm sorry to have spoiled your weekend but we're in the middle of a crisis.