Imagine you’re writing a perfect article or building your company’s online profile, and suddenly you pause — should you write “Web Site” or “Website”? 😅
The internet is filled with both versions, but which one is actually correct? This tiny spelling difference can instantly make your writing look either professional or outdated.
In this article, I’ll explain in a simple and interesting way what the real difference between “Web Site” and “Website” is, which version is used in modern English, and why this small detail matters for today’s digital writers and marketers.
Web Site or Website – Quick Answer
The correct and modern spelling is “website.”
- ✅ Correct: I just launched a new website.
- ❌ Outdated: I just launched a new web site.
“Web site” was common in the 1990s, but “website” is now standard in everyday writing, news, and professional contexts.
The Origin of Web Site or Website
- The word comes from “World Wide Web” + “site” (meaning place or location).
- In the 1990s, style guides like the Associated Press used “Web site.”
- Over time, English merged the two into “website.”
- By the 2000s, dictionaries and media shifted to “website,” reflecting everyday speech.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English now accept “website.” However:
- In early British English writing, “web site” appeared more often.
- In American English, the shift to “website” happened faster due to digital media influence.
Comparison Table
| Variation | British English (Past) | American English (Past) | Modern Usage |
| Web site | Common in 1990s | Common in 1990s | Rare today |
| Website | Increasingly common | Became standard sooner | Standard worldwide |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- US Audience: Always use “website.”
- UK/Commonwealth Audience: Use “website,” as “web site” is outdated.
- Global Audience: Stick with “website” for consistency and clarity.
Tip: If you want your writing to look modern and professional, always choose “website.”
Common Mistakes with Web Site or Website
- Writing “web-site” with a hyphen (❌ wrong).
- Capitalizing “Website” mid-sentence (❌ wrong unless it’s a title).
- Using “web site” in professional writing (❌ outdated).
Correct Example: Our company’s website is live now.
Web Site or Website in Everyday Examples
- Emails: Please visit our website for details.
- News: The BBC website reported breaking news.
- Social Media: Check the link in our bio to visit the website.
- Formal Writing: The study analyzed 50 business websites.
Web Site or Website – Google Trends & Usage Data
According to Google Trends and language data:
- “Website” dominates worldwide searches.
- “Web site” is now almost obsolete.
- Countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia overwhelmingly prefer “website.”
Comparison Table
| Keyword | Popularity (Google Trends) | Current Usage |
| Website | 95%+ | Standard |
| Web site | <5% | Rare/Outdated |
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FAQs
1. Is “web site” ever correct?
It was correct in the past, but now “website” is preferred.
2. Do dictionaries still list “web site”?
Yes, some list it as an alternative, but “website” is the main entry.
3. Which is more professional, “web site” or “website”?
“Website” is more professional and widely accepted.
4. Can I use “web-site” with a hyphen?
No, that is incorrect.
5. When did “website” become standard?
Around the early 2000s, as digital media and dictionaries updated their usage.
6. Do Americans and Brits spell it differently today?
No, both now use “website.”
7. Should I correct “web site” in old documents?
Yes, if the goal is modern, polished writing.
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Conclusion
The debate between “web site” or “website” is mostly historical. Today, “website” is the clear winner across British English, American English, and global usage. While “web site” appeared in the early internet era, dictionaries, style guides, and online platforms now recognize “website” as the standard form.
If you want your writing to look professional and current, always use “website.” This applies whether you’re writing emails, academic work, business reports, or blog content. The modern web demands clear, updated language—and “website” delivers just that.
Alexander Wren is a talented writer at lingorae.com, known for his clever wit and engaging style.
A true master of puns, he crafts playful wordplay that entertains and inspires readers.
