Puting or Putting: Which is Correct?

Putting vs Puting Spelling Illustration

The Quick Answer

The correct spelling is Putting.

Puting is an incorrect spelling (a typo).

Why is it Spelled "Putting"?

The confusion often arises from the English grammar rule regarding doubling consonants. Here is the simple rule to remember:

The CVC Rule

When a one-syllable verb ends in a Consonant-Vowel-Consonant (CVC) pattern, you double the final consonant before adding -ing.

Let's break down the word PUT:

  • P (Consonant)
  • U (Vowel)
  • T (Consonant)

Because "put" follows this CVC pattern, we double the 't' to get Putting. If we didn't double it, "puting" might be pronounced with a long 'u' sound (like "phew-ting"), which is incorrect.

Definition and Meaning

Putting is the present participle of the verb "to put". It has several meanings depending on the context:

1. Placing or Moving

To move something into a specific position or place.

"She is putting the books on the shelf."

2. In Golf

To hit a golf ball gently across the green towards the hole.

"Tiger Woods is excellent at putting under pressure."

Common Examples in Sentences

  • I am putting my clothes away.
  • He is putting a lot of effort into this project.
  • Are you putting me on? (Are you joking with me?)
  • I am puting my clothes away.

Putting vs Puting: Summary Table

WordStatusExplanation
PuttingCorrectFollows the CVC doubling rule (Put + t + ing).
PutingIncorrectA common misspelling/typo.

Did you know?

This rule applies to many other words too!
Run → Running (not Runing)
Sit → Sitting (not Siting)
Cut → Cutting (not Cuting)