Distinguishing Between Accredited & Credited

Accredited and Credited are two terms that are often mixed up due to their similar meanings. However, there is a difference between the two words. The term ‘accredited’ is typically used in the sense of ‘attributed,’ as shown in the following sentences:

1. This saying is accredited to Charles Dickens.
2. All virtues are accredited to the Almighty.

In both examples, the word ‘accredited’ is used to mean ‘attributed.’ It is important to note that the word ‘accredited’ is often followed by the preposition ‘to.’

On the other hand, the term ‘credited’ is used in the sense of ‘added to’ or ‘bestowed with,’ as demonstrated in these sentences:

1. Your account is credited with a few dollars.
2. An artist is credited with the quality of imagination.

In the first sentence, ‘credited’ means ‘added to,’ while in the second sentence, it means ‘bestowed with.’ Additionally, the word ‘accredited’ can sometimes be used to mean ‘recommend,’ as in the sentence, “The University was accredited to the status of autonomy.”

Key Takeaways

• ‘Accredited’ is used in the sense of ‘attributed’ and is often followed by the preposition ‘to.’
• ‘Credited’ is used in the sense of ‘added to’ or ‘bestowed with.’
• The term ‘accredited’ can also be used to mean ‘recommend.’