Updated OR update: Update is a present-tense verb or noun used for the act or thing that brings information current. Updated is the past-tense verb or adjective describing something that has already been modified to reflect recent changes. Use “update” for current actions and “updated” for completed states.
Quick Summary
Choosing between updated OR update comes down to timing and part of speech. If you are describing an ongoing action, a command, or a noun, use update. If you are describing a completed action or a state of being current, use updated.
| Word | Part of Speech | What It Means | Quick Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Update | Verb (Present) / Noun | The action of revising or the new information itself. | “Please update the software today.” |
| Updated | Verb (Past) / Adjective | Describing something that has already been revised. | “The updated file is on your desk.” |
Real-World Context & Examples
Understanding how these two words function in practical communication prevents common writing errors.
When to Use “Update”
Use update when you are taking action now, instructing someone else to take action, or referring to the news/data itself.
- As a verb (action): “I need to update my resume before applying.”
- As a command: “Please update the spreadsheet with today’s numbers.”
- As a noun (thing): “Did you read the latest status update?”
When to Use “Updated”
Use updated when the action is finished, or when describing a noun that is now fresh and current.
- As a past-tense verb: “She updated her profile picture yesterday.”
- As an adjective (description): “Make sure you read the updated safety guidelines.”
- In passive voice: “The software was updated automatically overnight.”
“Updated” or “Update” :Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most frequent error occurs when writers drop the “-ed” suffix off adjectives because of how spoken language sounds.
In everyday speech, people often slough off the “d” sound at the end of “updated,” making “updated list” sound like “update list.” Writing “Please see the update document” instead of “Please see the updated document” creates grammatical friction and looks unprofessional.
Another common slip is confusing noun usage. Say “I have an update for you” (noun), not “I have an updated for you.”
updated or update: Pro-Tip / Expert Take
The “Finished” Memory Trick: Ask yourself: Is the job finished?
If the task is finishED, use updatED.
If the action is taking place now, or you are giving an instruction, stick with update.
Updated OR update: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it “updated profile” or “update profile”?
If you are describing the profile that has been changed, it is an updated profile (adjective). If you are looking at a button or menu option telling you to perform the action, it says update profile (verb).
Is it “keep me update” or “keep me updated”?
The correct phrase is “keep me updated.” Here, updated acts as an adjective describing your state of being informed.
What is the past tense of update?
The past tense of update is updated. For example: “We updated our systems last week.”
