When it comes to numbers, the tiny circle we write as “0” might seem simple, but even its spelling sparks confusion. Should we write Noughts or zeros? Many people search for this term because they encounter both forms in different texts, from news articles to school assignments. The main question is: which one is correct, and why do both exist?
Understanding the difference matters for students, writers, and professionals who want to use the right style depending on where they live or whom they are writing for. This article will break it down with examples, history, and practical advice. By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use Noughts or zeros and avoid common mistakes in everyday writing, emails, or social media.
Zeroes or Zeros Grammar
Understanding the grammar of zeroes or zeros is simple. Both are plurals of zero, but zeros is standard in American English, while zeroes is preferred in British English. Use them consistently in writing, whether in numbers, reports, or math-related content, to maintain clarity and correctness.
Plural of Zero Oxford English Dictionary
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the plural of zero is zeros, though zeroes is also acceptable in British English. The dictionary notes both forms are correct, but zeros is more common internationally. Always match your plural form with your audience’s regional conventions.
Zeroes or Zeros – Quick Answer
Quick Answer: Both spellings are correct.
- Zeros – Preferred in American English. Example: The machine counted 50 zeros in the sequence.
- Zeroes – Common in British English. Example: The accountant wrote down the zeroes in the ledger.
✅ Tip: Use Noughts for US audiences, zeroes for UK/Commonwealth contexts.
The Origin of Zeroes or Zeros
The word “zero” comes from the Arabic word ṣifr, meaning “empty” or “nothing.” It reached Europe through Italian mathematicians in the Middle Ages, becoming zefiro in Italian and then zero in English.
The spelling zeroes developed in British English as a plural form following traditional rules for adding “-es” to words ending with “o.” American English, preferring simplicity, standardized zeros without the “e.”
British English vs American English Spelling
The main difference is style. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | British English | American English |
|---|---|---|
| Spelling | zeroes | zeros |
| Usage | Newspapers, formal writing, Commonwealth countries | Schools, media, US-based content |
| Example | She typed the zeroes carefully. | He typed the zeros carefully. |
Rule of Thumb: Use -es in UK English, -s in US English.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US audience → Use zeros
- UK/Commonwealth audience → Use zeroes
- Global or online content → Zeros is widely recognized and often preferred for simplicity
If your writing targets both audiences, consider your main readers and stick to one spelling consistently.
Common Mistakes with Zeroes or Zeros
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Using “zeroes” in American textbooks | Use zeros |
| Typing “zeros” in British formal letters | Use zeroes |
| Confusing “zero” (singular) with “zeros/zeroes” (plural) | Ensure plural matches style: zero → zeros/zeroes |
| Writing “0s” as a plural | Acceptable in informal contexts, but less formal than spelling out words |
| Mixing styles in one document | Stick to either US or UK consistently |
Zeroes or Zeros in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- US: We found three zeros in the report.
- UK: The accountant noted five zeroes in the balance sheet.
News articles:
- US: The team scored zeros in the first half.
- UK: The team scored zeroes in the first half.
Social media:
- Often simplified: There were 0s in the count!
Formal writing:
- Follow audience preference: US → zeros, UK → zeroes
Zeroes or Zeros – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows Noughts dominating searches in the US, while zeroes is more common in the UK and Australia. Searches spike around math topics, finance articles, and technology tutorials.
| Keyword | Popularity (Global) | Common Context |
|---|---|---|
| zeros | High in US, Canada | Math, programming, finance |
| zeroes | Moderate in UK, Australia | Finance, formal documents, newspapers |
FAQs
1.How to use zeroes in a sentence?
The accountant wrote down five zeroes in the ledger.
2.What is the plural form of zero?
The plural can be zeros (US) or zeroes (UK).
3.Is zero written with a slash?
Sometimes a slash (Ø) is used to distinguish zero from the letter O.
4.Why do people put slashes through zeros?
To avoid confusion between the digit 0 and the letter O in handwriting or coding.
5.What is the correct way to write a zero?
Simply as 0, or with a slash (Ø) if clarity is needed.
6.Is it spelled zeroes or zeros?
Both are correct: zeros (US), zeroes (UK).
7.How to write zero in different ways?
0, 0.0, Ø (slashed zero), or spelled out as zero/zeroes.
8.What is this number 1000000000000000000000000 zeros?
It represents a 1 followed by 24 zeros, called a septillion in the US.
9.About Zeroes or ZerosIs it zeros or zeroes in the UK?
In the UK, zeroes is preferred, though zeros is also understood.
Conclusion
Knowing whether to use zeroes or zeros is simple once you understand your audience. US English prefers zeros, while UK and Commonwealth English use zeroes. Always stay consistent within a document, email, or social media post. Using the correct form not only avoids confusion but also improves professionalism and clarity in communication. When in doubt, consider your readers’ location, the style of writing, and the context—math, finance, or general writing. Remember, both spellings are correct, but audience awareness makes your writing polished and credible.
