Re: Programme [Why does the meaning ...]

Gary Shannon wrote at 2004-04-21 11:14:39 (-0700)

 > Here's a citation from the Mirror newspaper:
 >
 >
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/24by7panews/tm_objectid=14109563&method=full&siteid=50143&headline=computer-programme-predicts-heart-attack-risk-name_page.html
 >
 > here's a cite from BBC:
 >
 > http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/low/health/326748.stm
 >
 > I rest my case.  Usage makes it correct.
 >
 > --gary

I don't think "usage makes it correct" can be regarded as an absolute
principle with respect to spelling in the same way that it can for
e.g. syntax.  In any case, a more nuanced use of Google reveals that
within the .uk TLD, "computer program" outnumbers "computer programme"
4/1 while "television programme" outnumbers "television program" 6/1.

site:.uk

		program		programme
computer	38,500		 9,440
television	 3,460		21,700	


This suggests that while the distinction between "program" and
"programme" is not universally upheld in written British English, it
is observed by a significant part of the population.

(It should be noted, incidentally, that "computer programme" is a
possible (if relatively rare) formation in the writing of those who
make the distinction; it just means something other than code, like a
course of instruction or a plan of action to install computers.)