specialty vs. speciality

[Torsten]

Is there any difference between speciality and specialty or are they just different spellings of the same word?

Thanks,
Torsten

TOEIC short conversations: Two exhibition company co-workers discuss logistics of upcoming trade show.

[Iraqi]

Hi Torsten!

I think there is no difference in meaning- just two different spellings.

Regards

[Saras]

Hi Torsten,

Speciality is something general, and specialty is more specific. Eg: He is an Engineer, the specialty in Piping.

I just try to answer from my point of view, so please correct me if I am wrong.

Rgds,
Saras

[Natasha81]

I looked up my extra thick Oxford dictionary, and it said "speciality"="specialty".

Regards,

Natasha.

[Iraqi]

This means that your Mr. Thick dictionary agrees with Mr. Me. It is a great honor for 'him'. :-)

[Natasha81]

EXACTLY RIGHT:)

[Morteza]

Hi Dear Torsten,
"Specialty" is used in American English,but "Speciality" in British English.
Surprisingly,those plural forms are the same:"Specialities".
Regards,
Morteza

[Prezbucky]

In the US it's "specialty" and "specialties" is the plural form.
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[Rejidaniel03]

Yes, I also think that both are having the same meaning, 'the area of expertise'. The first is British English and other is American English.

Have a good day.

Reji.

[Esl_Expert]

.
I agree with Prezbucky. In the US, the word "specialty" is normally the version of that word that is used. And the plural form of "specialty" is "specialties".

I associate the use of the word "speciality" with British English.

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[Jamie (K)]

I will go further. "Specialty" is used in American English, and "speciality" is more common in British English.

If you say "speciality" in North America, you will sound like a circus ringmaster.