What's the Difference Between 'Kneeled' and 'Knelt'?

'Kneeled' or 'Knelt'?

The past tense forms of the verb "kneel" are "kneeled" and "knelt." Both forms are considered to be correct and acceptable spellings, not only for the past tense of "kneel," but also for its past participle. However, there is a difference between past tense and past participle, and the choice between the two forms depends on the context and the writer's preference.

The past tense of a verb refers to an action that has already been completed. It is used to indicate that an event has occurred in the past. For example, "I kneeled down to tie my shoelaces."

The past participle, on the other hand, is used to indicate that an action has already been completed, but it is also used to form various tenses and forms of verb phrases such as perfect, passive, and continuous. For example, "I have knelt here for an hour" or "I was knelt down."

"Kneeled" is the regular past tense form of the verb, formed by adding the -ed ending to the base form "kneel." This form is commonly used in American English and is considered to be the more formal or written form of the verb.

"Knelt," on the other hand, is considered to be the past participle of the verb and is commonly used in British English. It is considered to be the more informal or spoken form of the verb.

In general, "kneeled" is more commonly used in American English, while "knelt" is more common in British English. However, both forms are widely understood and accepted in both varieties of English.

In conclusion, both "kneeled" and "knelt" are correct forms of the past tense and past participle of the verb "kneel." The choice between the two forms depends on the context and the writer's preference. Both forms are widely understood and accepted in both American and British English. The past participle is used to indicate an action that has already been completed and also used to form various tenses and forms of verb phrases.