Many people search for “performa or proforma” because these two words look similar, sound similar, and are often used in business documents especially invoices.
You might see performa invoice in emails, online templates, or even official-looking paperwork. At the same time, accountants, exporters, and finance professionals insist that proforma invoice is the correct term.
This creates confusion for students, freelancers, business owners, and anyone dealing with international trade or billing.
The confusion usually comes from spelling mistakes spreading online and being reused again and again. Search engines, templates, and even vendors sometimes use performa, making it feel correct.
However, only one of these words has a real meaning in professional English.
This article solves that confusion clearly and quickly. You’ll get a short answer, the history of both terms, British vs American usage, real-life examples, common mistakes, and practical advice on which spelling you should use.
By the end, you’ll know exactly when and why to use proforma and avoid costly or unprofessional errors.
Performa or Proforma – Quick Answer
Proforma is the correct term.
Performa is a spelling mistake in most business and accounting contexts.
Example:
- ✅ Please find attached the proforma invoice for your review.
- ❌ Please find attached the performa invoice for your review.
Proforma means “for the sake of form” and is used for advance invoices, estimates, or preliminary documents.
The Origin of Performa or Proforma
The word proforma comes from Latin:
pro forma = for form’s sake
It has been used for centuries in legal, accounting, and commercial writing. A proforma invoice is not a final bill. It is a preliminary document sent before goods or services are delivered.
Performa, on the other hand, has no historical or grammatical basis in standard English. It appeared due to:
- Typing errors
- Mispronunciation
- Repeated misuse in templates and online content
Over time, the mistake spread, especially in informal business communication.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no spelling difference here between British and American English.
Both use proforma.
| Variant | British English | American English | Correct? |
| Proforma | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✅ Correct |
| Performa | ✖ No | ✖ No | ❌ Incorrect |
Unlike words such as colour/color, this term stays the same worldwide.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
performa or proforma which is correct
Your audience matters—but in this case, the rule is universal.
- United States: Use proforma
- UK & Commonwealth: Use proforma
- International business: Use proforma
- Legal or accounting documents: Always proforma
If you want to look professional and avoid confusion, never use performa in official writing.
Common Mistakes with Performa or Proforma
Here are frequent errors people make:
- ❌ Writing performa invoice instead of proforma invoice
- ❌ Assuming performa is an American spelling
- ❌ Using performa in contracts or legal emails
- ❌ Copying incorrect spellings from templates
Correction tip:
If it’s about pricing, estimates, or advance billing—use proforma.
Performa or Proforma in Everyday Examples
performa or proforma which is correct
- ✅ We are sending a proforma invoice before shipment.
Business News
- ✅ The exporter issued a proforma invoice to the buyer.
Social Media
- ❌ I shared the performa with the client.
- ✅ I shared the proforma with the client.
Formal Writing
- ✅ Payment will be processed after approval of the proforma invoice.
- Read Also.Performa or Proforma: What’s the Correct Term and When Should You Use It?
Performa or Proforma – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows:
- “Proforma invoice” is widely searched in the US, UK, Europe, and Asia.
- “Performa invoice” appears mostly due to spelling confusion, especially in South Asia.
Professionally written content, accounting software, and legal documents always prefer proforma. Search engines also rank proforma as the correct and authoritative term.
Comparison Table: Performa vs Proforma
| Feature | Proforma | Performa |
| Correct spelling | Yes | No |
| Used in accounting | Yes | No |
| Legal acceptance | Yes | No |
| Global usage | Standard | Informal mistake |
| Recommended | ✅ Always | ❌ Never |
FAQs: Performa or Proforma
1. Is “performa invoice” ever correct?
No. The correct term is proforma invoice.
2. Why do people use “performa”?
Because of typing errors and repeated misuse online.
3. Is proforma British or American English?
It is used in both British and American English.
4. Can I use performa in casual writing?
It’s best not to. It still looks incorrect.
5. What does proforma mean in simple words?
It means a preliminary or sample invoice, not a final bill.
6. Is proforma legally binding?
Usually no. It’s informational, not a demand for payment.
7. Should students and freelancers use proforma?
Yes. It looks professional and correct.
Conclusion
The confusion between performa or proforma is common, but the rule is simple. Proforma is the only correct and accepted term in English. It has a clear Latin origin, a long history in business and law, and is used worldwide without spelling changes. Performa, despite appearing in searches and templates, is just a widespread mistake.
If you write emails, invoices, contracts, or academic content, using proforma protects your credibility. It shows attention to detail and professional awareness especially in international or financial communication. Whether you are a student, freelancer, business owner, or accountant, choosing the correct spelling avoids misunderstandings and keeps your writing accurate.
When in doubt, remember this:
If it’s about estimates, advance billing, or formal documentation proforma is always right.
Henry Watson Fowler was a British lexicographer best known for his work on English usage. His writings focus on clarity, correctness, and practical grammar. Fowler’s approach still influences modern English learners.
