Everywhere you turn whether it’s music, business, sports, or even popular culture the word “hustle” is buzzing.
It’s a badge of honor in the corporate world, a mantra in startup culture, and a theme in the daily grind of urban life. But occasionally, another spelling pops up: hussle. So, let’s finally settle the debate: hustle or hussle which spelling is correct?
Hustle is Correct
If you’re looking for the correct spelling, it’s hustle with a single “s.”
The variant hussle is considered a misspelling, though it’s been used in certain cultural or artistic contexts, particularly in branding or slang. But for academic, professional, and general English language usage, stick with hustle.
The Etymology of Hustle
To truly understand why hustle is the accepted form, let’s explore its origins:
- Dutch language roots: The word likely evolved from the Dutch verb “husselen,” meaning “to shake” or “to toss,” dating back to the 1680s.
- First recorded in American English in 1821, it originally meant to push or shove roughly.
- By 1840, the meaning expanded to include energetic activity or hurried movement.
- In 1887, the word took on an additional sense: to obtain by force or fraud.
- By 1891, it was being used to refer to busy movement or the act of striving.
These historical shifts paint a vivid picture of hustle evolving in both definition and context.
What About “Hussle“?
The word hussle does not have a historical record in the etymology books. It’s not derived from the Dutch language, and it doesn’t appear in standard dictionaries as a legitimate word.
Simply put, “hussle” is an incorrect alternative—a typographical error that gained limited cultural traction.
Hussle vs Hustle in Popular Culture
One reason people use hussle is due to cultural or artistic influences. The most notable example? Nipsey Hussle, the late rapper and entrepreneur.
His stage name, a nod to his real name (Ermias Joseph Asghedom) and the phrase “hustle,” contributed to the popularity of this alternate spelling.
However, this is a case of branding not grammar.
- Email Example:
Subject: Marketing Direction for Streetwear Campaign
Hey Darnell,
Let’s lean into the urban life narrative. Think along the lines of Nipsey’s legacy. We’re not just selling hoodies; we’re selling ambition, grind, and that authentic hussle vibe.
Best, Kayla
In this case, hussle is used for stylistic purposes to invoke a brand identity—not as a grammatically correct form.
What Does Hussle Mean?
If you’re wondering, “What does hussle mean?” technically, it means nothing. It has no formal dictionary definition in American English or British English. When people use hussle, they’re usually aiming for hustle, referring to:
- Hard work
- Determination
- Ambition
- Energetic activity
That said, it’s important to know when you can use creative spellings like hussle, and when you must stick with standard language.
Hustle: A Word with Many Faces
The word hustle functions as both a verb and noun.
As a Verb:
- She hustled through the crowded station.
- He’s been hustling to finish those freelance projects.
As a Noun:
- His hustle is inspiring.
- The event had the usual bustle and hustle of a trade fair.
Its versatility is what makes it such a powerful word in various writing contexts.
Common Reasons for the Confusion
1. Pronunciation Confusion
Because hustle and hussle sound the same, it’s easy to assume either might be valid.
2. Creative Spellings in Music and Branding
In music, branding, and slang, alternate spellings like hussle are used for memorability and uniqueness.
3. Typographical Errors
Sometimes it’s just a typo. Writing too quickly? “Hussle” may sneak in.
Usage in Business and Urban Settings
Whether you’re launching a startup, working in retail, or navigating the corporate world, hustle represents drive, effort, and grit.
- Email Example:
Subject: New Hire Profile: Jamal Williams
Hey Rachel,
Attached is Jamal’s onboarding doc. What stood out in his interview was his commitment to the grind the real kind of hustle that makes a difference.
Cheers, Mark
When is it Ever OK to Use Hussle?
Only in informal usage or to reference specific cultural moments. For example:
- As a nickname or brand name.
- In lyrics or creative writing to reflect a certain identity or mood.
But in all professional, academic, and formal writing contexts—don’t use hussle.
Historical Appearances of “Hustle”
| Year | Notable Usage |
|---|---|
| 1680s | Dutch “husselen” influences English |
| 1715 | Early uses in literature (movement) |
| 1821 | First known use in American English |
| 1840 | Expansion to energetic movement |
| 1887 | Association with fraud or trickery |
| 1891 | Modern sense of striving appears |
| 1963 | Used in reference to fast-paced life |
| 1975 | Popularized by the dance: The Hustle |
Hustle-Cap: A Game with a Legacy
You might also come across the term hustle-cap, a lesser-known reference. It’s a game where players flip coins and try to guess outcomes to win others’ money. The term relates to urban hustle, blending elements of luck, effort, and skill.
How to Remember the Correct Spelling
Here’s a trick:
- Think of the word bustle, which also ends in -stle.
- Remember the phrase: “Work hard, stay humble, always hustle.“
- Avoid doubling the “s” unless you’re talking about Nipsey Hussle.
Hustle in Modern Life
Whether you’re chasing success in a startup, pitching freelance projects, or juggling three side gigs, the word hustle defines a mindset a lifestyle built on labor, push, and grind.
But don’t forget: just because something looks trendy, like “hussle,” doesn’t make it legitimate in writing.
Conclusion: Hustle Hard, But Spell It Right
When deciding between hustle or hussle, remember:
- Hustle is the correct spelling.
- Hussle is a misspelling—unless used in branding or cultural references.
- Always use hustle in professional and educational settings.
- Be mindful of creative spellings and when they’re appropriate.
From etymology to urban life, from sports to music, from retailers to the corporate world—the word hustle remains a pillar of ambition, effort, and movement. Spell it with one “s”—and you’ll be spelling it right.
