✅ Inputting is the correct spelling; imputting is incorrect and not used in standard English.
English learners and writers often get confused between “inputting” and “imputting.” Both sound similar when spoken, but only one is correct in standard English. Using the wrong form can make your writing unclear or unprofessional.
People search for “inputting or imputting” because they encounter both forms in emails, computer instructions, or online texts. The confusion typically arises from pronunciation and the tendency to replace the “n” with an “m,” which is incorrect.
Knowing the correct form ensures clear communication in technical writing, reports, emails, or social media posts.
In this article, we will explain the correct usage of inputting, explore its origin, compare British and American English usage, highlight common mistakes, and provide examples in everyday writing. By the end, you will confidently know which spelling to use in any context.
Inputting or Imputting – Quick Answer
- Inputting → Correct spelling; refers to entering data or information into a system or device.
- Example 1: She is inputting the survey data into the spreadsheet.
- Example 2: Inputting accurate information is crucial for analysis.
- Example 1: She is inputting the survey data into the spreadsheet.
- Imputting → Incorrect spelling; not standard in English.
✅ Quick Tip: Always use inputting. Imputting is a common misspelling.
Read more about: Hilight or Highlight: Which Spelling Is Correct?
The Origin of Inputting or Imputting
- Inputting comes from the verb input, which originated in the 19th century, combining in + put, meaning “to put in.”
- The continuous form inputting follows standard English grammar rules for present participles, adding -ing.
- Imputting has no recognized origin and appears as a phonetic misspelling. It is not correct in standard English writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English use inputting as the correct spelling. The misspelling imputting is incorrect in all English variants.
| Word | British English | American English | Usage Notes |
| Inputting | ✅ Correct | ✅ Correct | Entering data or information into a system or document |
| Imputting | ❌ Incorrect | ❌ Incorrect | Common misspelling due to pronunciation confusion |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US audience: Use inputting in all professional, technical, or casual writing.
- UK/Commonwealth audience: Use inputting; imputting is incorrect.
- Global writing: Stick with inputting to ensure clarity and professionalism.
Common Mistakes with Inputting or Imputting
- Using imputting instead of inputting. ❌
- Wrong: He is imputting the data into the system.
- Correct: He is inputting the data into the system. ✅
- Wrong: He is imputting the data into the system.
- Confusing inputting with outputting or other technical terms.
- Using imputting in formal or technical documents, which reduces credibility.
Inputting or Imputting in Everyday Examples
Emails:
- I am inputting all the client information into the database.
- Please ensure you are inputting accurate figures in the spreadsheet.
Social Media:
- Inputting your details correctly helps avoid errors.
- She is inputting results from the online survey.
News Headlines:
- Inputting patient data digitally improves hospital efficiency.
- The company is inputting sales figures for quarterly analysis.
Formal Writing:
- Inputting precise measurements is crucial for scientific research.
- The report requires inputting all relevant financial data.
Inputting or Imputting – Google Trends & Usage Data
Analysis of search trends shows:
- Inputting is widely searched and used in professional, technical, and educational contexts.
- Imputting searches are mainly for spelling corrections or beginner English queries.
| Keyword | Global Search Popularity | Notes |
| Inputting | High | Technical writing, data entry, professional documents |
| Imputting | Low | Misspelling, spelling correction searches |
Keyword Variations Comparison Table
| Word | Correctness | Example Sentence |
| Inputting | ✅ Correct | She is inputting the data into the database carefully. |
| Imputting | ❌ Incorrect | She is imputting the data into the database carefully. (incorrect) |
FAQs
1. Can “imputting” ever be correct?
No, imputting is always a misspelling of inputting.
2. Can “inputting” be used in formal writing?
Yes, it is widely accepted in technical, professional, and academic contexts.
3. Are there differences between British and American English?
No, inputting is standard in both variants.
4. How can I remember the correct spelling?
Think: input + ing = inputting, meaning “entering data or information.”
5. Can “inputting” refer to tasks beyond computers?
Yes, e.g., Inputting ideas into the plan can improve efficiency.
6. Is “imputting” acceptable in casual writing?
It is considered incorrect even in informal contexts.
7. Can “inputting” be pluralized?
You can refer to inputting tasks or inputting steps.
Conclusion
In summary, inputting is the correct spelling for entering data or information into a system, document, or plan. Imputting is a common misspelling that should always be avoided. Both British and American English use inputting, so choosing the correct form ensures clarity and professionalism.Using the correct spelling improves readability, credibility, and consistency in emails, reports, social media posts, and formal documents. Remember: inputting = entering or recording information, and imputting = incorrect. By following the examples, tables, and tips in this article, you can confidently write in any context without spelling mistakes.
I am James Whitmore. I love clear and honest English. I write to make hard words feel simple. My goal is to help readers write with confidence, without fear or confusion.
