If you’re tired of your browser underlining words like “colour” and “favourite” as incorrect, it might be time to switch your browser’s dictionary to UK English. This quick guide will show you how to do it in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.
Why Change the Dictionary to UK English?
- Ensures consistent spelling in emails and documents.
- Prevents unnecessary corrections from US English defaults.
- Enhances professional communication for UK-based businesses.
How to Change the Dictionary in Mozilla Firefox
Checking Your Current Dictionary
- Open Firefox and navigate to any text field (e.g., a search bar or an email).
- Right-click in the text field and look for “Languages” in the menu.
- If “English (United Kingdom)” isn’t listed, you’ll need to add it.
Installing the UK English Dictionary
- Open Firefox Add-ons by going to:
about:addons - Click “Languages” on the left-hand menu.
- Search for “British English Dictionary” in the Add-ons store.
- Click Add to Firefox and confirm installation.
Setting UK English as Default
- Right-click in a text field again.
- Go to Languages and select English (United Kingdom).
- Restart Firefox for changes to take effect.
How to Change the Dictionary in Google Chrome
Accessing Language Settings
- Open Google Chrome and click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings > Languages.
- Click “Add languages” if UK English isn’t listed.
Adding UK English
- In the language search bar, type “English (United Kingdom)”.
- Select it and click Add.
Setting UK English as the Default Spellchecker
- Under the Spell Check section, find English (United Kingdom).
- Toggle it on, and make sure English (United States) is turned off.
- Close and restart Chrome to apply changes.
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How to Change the Dictionary in Microsoft Edge
Navigating to Language Settings
- Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three-dot menu in the top-right.
- Select Settings > Languages.
Adding UK English
- Click “Add languages” and search for English (United Kingdom).
- Select it and click Add.
Enabling UK English Spell Check
- Scroll down to Check spelling.
- Enable English (United Kingdom) and disable English (United States).
- Restart Edge to finalise changes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- UK English doesn’t appear? Restart the browser and check again.
- Spellchecker still using US English? Remove the US dictionary and re-add UK English.
- Changes not saving? Ensure you have browser sync enabled for language settings.
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Final Thoughts
Switching your browser’s dictionary to UK English is a simple but essential step for ensuring correct spelling in professional and personal communications. By following the steps above, you can make sure your browser always recognises British spelling.
FAQs
Q: Can I switch back to US English if needed? A: Yes, simply follow the same steps and re-enable US English.
Q: Does changing the dictionary affect websites I visit? A: No, it only affects text input fields like forms, emails, and comments.
Q: Will this setting sync across my devices? A: Yes, if you are signed into your browser account and have sync enabled.
Q: Can I have both UK and US English spell check enabled? A: Yes, but your browser may automatically default to one over the other.
