How to Use Learned or Learnt

What's the past tense of "learn"?

The past tense of learn can be either learned or learnt. Both forms are correct, with learned being more common in American English and learnt preferred in British English.

Verb forms of 'learn'

The verb learn, as described by Oxford Dictionary: "To gain knowledge or skill by studying, from experience, from being taught, etc.: she learned to speak French." Also, "To become aware of something by hearing about it from someone else: I learned that he was leaving."

Sentence examples: learn, learned/learnt, learned/learnt

[faq] Q: Present tense examples A: Examples: • I learn something new every day. • She learns Spanish at the community center. • They learn from their mistakes. • Children learn quickly. Q: Past tense examples (learned - US) A: Examples: • He learned to drive last summer. • She learned the truth about the situation. • We learned from our previous mistakes. Q: Past tense examples (learnt - UK) A: Examples: • I learnt French in school. • We learnt from our previous mistakes. Q: Past participle examples (learned - US) A: Examples: • I have learned a valuable lesson. • They had learned the material before the test. Q: Past participle examples (learnt - UK) A: Examples: • She has learnt to be more patient. • He has learnt from his past experiences. [/faq]

Synonyms for "learn"

FAQs

Is "learned" or "learnt" correct?+

Both "learned" and "learnt" are correct. "Learned" is more common in American English, while "learnt" is preferred in British English.

What type of verb is "learn"?+

"Learn" is a semi-irregular verb that has two acceptable past tense forms: "learned" and "learnt."

Can I use both forms in the same text?+

It's best to be consistent within a single piece of writing. Choose either "learned" or "learnt" and stick with it throughout your text.

Which form should I use in formal writing?+

Both forms are acceptable in formal writing. Choose based on your target audience: "learned" for American readers, "learnt" for British readers.

Sources

1. "Learn, V." Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford UP, March 2025.