28 Aug 2024
Transacting through your bank to send money often involves a physical document, the trusty cheque or check. While both terms seem interchangeable, a subtle difference in spelling exists, and understanding the appropriate usage can prevent confusion. This comprehensive guide will dive into the history, regional variations, and proper usage of "cheque" and “check.”
The Great Spelling Divide - Cheque vs. Check by Region
The use of "cheque" and "check" primarily falls along regional lines:
Cheque
This spelling is the most prevalent in British English as well as in countries that were formerly British colonies, like Australia, New Zealand, and India as examples.
Check
This spelling reflects the form employed mostly in American English and is frequently found in Canada and the Philippines. The words “cheque” and “check” mean either one. It’s a matter of choosing the place that needs special attention.
A History of Payment Orders - Cheque vs. Check
As far back as ink was used in communication, the written order to pay money from a bank account is very old.
Early Precursors
The concept of using written documentation in place of money in the form of a clay tablet was adopted in ancient Mesopotamia, where clay tablets were used as receipts or promissory notes.
To this effect, other comparable practices surfaced in the ancient Chinese and Roman civilizations, again impressing humanity with the feature of securing and monitoring their monetary dealings.
The Rise of Bills of Exchange
It turns out to be fifteenth-century Europe when standard merchandisers tended to use "bills of exchange" for trading. These acts specified a certain merchant's bank in a place to pay its designated payee somewhere else. The application of bills of exchange significantly softened the necessity for a merchant to transport substantial sums of money personally, which decreased the risk of being robbed.
The Birth of the Cheque
The month of the 17th century saw the creation of the device we know now as the cheque (or check). This French term is assumed to have its roots in the Arabic word "sikkah," which translates into "payment order," the country’s term was adapted into the French language.
At the early stage, payments had been moved manually, and individual checks were typewritten by a customer to his bank, describing payment to a third party. In those days, the checks were in control with high-class businessmen and entrepreneur merchants and were used only for official works.
Standardization and Growth
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the standardization of cheques. The early stage of check-printing has been discovered by a bank issuing pre-printed cheques with the rules that were imposed in order to meet the requirements of the validity and security. The institutions of banking and the resulting expansion of business continue to be the driving force towards checks as opposed to cash as a mode of payment.
The Great Spelling Divide
By the time (this century), different spelling variations, especially in the "check" accent, were in North America. The main reason for the divergence of languages among English-speaking countries is unknown, but it is possibly because of linguistic changes that occurred between British and American English.
The 20th Century and Beyond
The twentieth century was a revolutionary one, as it introduced all sorts of new security features, such as watermarks and machine-readable codes for the cheques. On the other hand, those comforts were offset by the introduction of electronic banking and also other payment methods like credit and debit cards in the latter half of the century. There are cheques that remain relevant as a medium of payment method, but their usage has gradually declined in recent years.
Understanding When to Use Cheque or Check
The following guide will help you with when to use a cheque versus a check.
Formal Writing
Meanwhile, the formal, mainly those with a British background, would probably say that "cheque" is the appropriate term.
International Communication
In the case of communication with UK residents or the subjects of Commonwealth countries usage of "cheque" creates cultural awareness.
North American Communication
The "check" spelling is the right use of American English in North America and any region where that language is chief.
Universally Understood
Regardless of spelling, "cheque" and "check" are widely understood in the financial world.
When to Avoid Using "Cheque" and "Check"
Avoid "Cheque” within the United States, Canada, and the Philippines, where American English dominates; "check" is the standard term. Using "cheque" might sound out of place. In casual conversations or everyday writing, "check" or "payment" might be more natural choices.
When dealing with a true formal context with strong British roots, such as in legal documents or official correspondence within the UK or the Commonwealth countries, avoid saying "check" – the phrase "'cheque'" is preferred instead.
Using "check" could be perceived as a minor misstep. When corresponding with individuals or businesses from regions where "cheque" is prevalent, using "check" might lack cultural sensitivity. Opt for "cheque" to demonstrate awareness of regional variations.
That said, it would be pretty much the same whether to say snowfall or snowdrops, but analyzing the regional patterns will make the recognition of cultural sensitivity look graceful.
The Future of Payments: Beyond Cheques and Checks
While cheques remain a relevant payment method, the rise of alternatives like online money transfers is undeniable. They envisage newer easy to use methods of transferring money, and thus cheapening the chance of cheques being (or check being) used.
Keeping it in Check: The Future of Cheques in a Digital World
Such knowledge will show that you have an insight into the variation of financial terms in different parts of the world. Keep in mind that either term may be used, and the best choice is dictated by the context. The online money transfer landscape is constantly changing, and the online channel might as well become the most dominant way of sending and receiving money. However, cheques (or checks) will most likely retain their importance for years to come.
FAQs
What's the difference between "cheque" and "check"?
Both refer to the same document instructing a bank to pay money. "Cheque" is mainly used in British English, while "check" dominates American English.
When should you use "cheque" or "check"?
Formal Writing
In British contexts, use "cheque."
International Communication
Use "cheque" when corresponding with the UK or Commonwealth countries.
North America
Use "check" in the US and Canada.
Are both spellings understood everywhere?
Yes, "cheque" and "check" are widely recognized in the financial world.
Is there a spelling rule to remember?
There is no set rule, but "cheque" has a "u" and is preferred in British English, while "check" is used in American English and follows the "k" sound pattern.
Do cheques (or checks) need to be updated?
A money transfer offers faster and more convenient ways to send money. However, cheques (or checks) might still be used in specific situations.
References
https://www.merriam-webster.com/grammar/check-vs-cheque-british-english-spelling-usage
