How to Fix Incorrect Cambodian March Date Format in Excel
Question details
The user needs to correct a localization error where the spreadsheet program displays an incorrect or non-standard Cambodian (Khmer) translation for the month of March.

- Product
- Microsoft Excel
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Applying localized Cambodian date formats to spreadsheet cells containing dates.
- Observed behavior
- When formatted as a Cambodian date, eleven of the month names appear correctly, but the month of March displays an incorrect or contested regional spelling.
Verify the preferred spelling for March with authoritative Cambodian language references, as some regional dialects or older dictionaries may use alternative spellings.
Report the Localization Bug via Microsoft Excel Feedback
Submit a formal bug report to Microsoft to have the built-in translation dictionary updated in a future software release.
Because month names are hardcoded into the application's regional localization libraries, users cannot permanently modify the default dictionary themselves. The most effective long-term solution is to notify the development team directly.
Open your Excel application and navigate to the 'Help' tab on the top ribbon, then click on 'Feedback'. Alternatively, you can go to 'File' > 'Feedback'.
Select the 'Report a Problem' or 'I Don't Like Something' option to open the feedback submission pane.
Clearly state that the Cambodian (Khmer) date format displays an incorrect spelling for March. Provide the correct spelling from authoritative language references and include a screenshot of the incorrect output.
Click 'Submit' to send the report to the Microsoft Office development team for review and future correction.

Use a Custom Formula Workaround
Manually replace the incorrect month name using a text substitution formula as a temporary fix.
Try WPS Office for Seamless and Free Spreadsheet Management
Since localization bugs in standard Office applications may take time to be resolved by developers, consider using WPS Office. It provides robust spreadsheet tools, extensive formatting support, and a lightweight, user-friendly environment.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website to download and install the free suite on your PC or Mac.
- 2. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing Excel workbook without losing any data or formatting.
- 3. Manage Date Formats: Use built-in custom formatting tools and text functions to accurately present your regional date formats.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Excel display the wrong translation for regional months?
Spreadsheet software relies on underlying localization libraries and built-in translation engines. Occasionally, regional dialects, contested dictionary spellings, or outdated localization files can result in a less common or incorrect term being displayed.
Can I permanently edit the default language dictionary in Excel?
No, standard users cannot directly modify the core localization dictionaries embedded in the software. You must rely on official software updates from the developer or use formula-based text substitutions.
Will changing my Windows region settings fix the date bug?
Changing your Windows display language to Khmer ensures broader system-wide language support, but it generally will not override a specific hardcoded translation error within the spreadsheet application itself.
How long does it take to fix a reported localization issue?
The timeline varies based on user feedback volume. Development teams typically aggregate bug reports and roll out non-critical localization corrections in routine monthly or quarterly patch updates.




