Fix Word and OneNote Spell Check Using the Wrong Language
Question details
The user needs to correct the spell check language in Word and OneNote, as it is marking valid English words as incorrect and suggesting words from another language.
- Product
- Microsoft Word, Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- iOS
- Scenario
- Typing notes or documents and relying on the built-in spell checker to catch errors, but receiving foreign language suggestions instead of English ones.
- Observed behavior
- The spell check incorrectly underlines valid words like 'starts' and 'because' and suggests unfamiliar or German words. This issue started in OneNote and later affected Word.
Before modifying app settings, verify that your device's system keyboard is currently set to your preferred language and that you haven't accidentally toggled to a foreign language layout while typing.
Reset the iOS Keyboard Spell Check Settings
Since Word and OneNote on iOS rely on system-level keyboard features, toggling the global spell check off and on can resolve language confusion.
Mobile versions of Microsoft Office applications frequently pull their proofing tools directly from the iOS keyboard settings. If the system spell checker gets stuck or confused, resetting it from the main settings app will force it to recalibrate to your active keyboard language.
Navigate to the home screen of your iPhone or iPad and open the 'Settings' app.
Scroll down and tap on 'General', then select 'Keyboard' to access your typing and language preferences.
Locate the 'Check Spelling' switch. Tap it to turn it off, wait a few seconds, and then tap it again to turn it back on.
Tap 'Keyboards' at the top of the menu and ensure your desired language (e.g., English) is listed at the top. Remove any unnecessary foreign language keyboards.
Set the Proofing Language in OneNote Online to Sync
Changing the language setting via the web version of OneNote forces a synchronization that overrides incorrect settings on your mobile devices.
Switch to WPS Office for Reliable Spell Checking and Formatting
If you are tired of sync issues and incorrect language proofing in Microsoft Word and OneNote, try WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible alternative with robust, easy-to-manage built-in spell checking for multiple languages.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Install WPS Office from the official website or your device's app store.
- 2. Open Your Document: Launch the app and open your existing Word document; formatting will be preserved seamlessly.
- 3. Set Proofing Language: Go to the 'Review' tab, click 'Spell Check', and choose 'Set Language' to easily lock in your preferred dictionary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my spell check suddenly in a different language?
This usually happens if your keyboard language was accidentally switched via a shortcut, or if you pasted text from another source that carried over its original proofing language formatting into your current document.
How do I change the default proofing language in Microsoft Word?
In Word, highlight your text, go to the 'Review' tab, select 'Language', and then click 'Set Proofing Language'. Choose your preferred language, click 'Set As Default', and confirm to apply it to all new documents.
Does WPS Office support multiple languages for spell checking?
Yes, WPS Office supports spell checking in numerous languages. You can easily switch the dictionary language from the 'Review' tab to match the text you are currently writing, preventing false error highlights.
