Koran or Quran? The Correct Spelling Explained
Koran, Quran or Qur’an — what is the difference? Where the spellings come from, which one is preferred today, and what the word means.
Last updated: 2026-10-03
Short answer: Koran, Quran and Qur’an all name the same book — the holy book of Islam. They are different ways of writing one Arabic word in English letters. Today Quran (or Qur’an) is the usual spelling; “Koran” is older.
Where the spellings come from
The Arabic word begins with the letter qaf, a “k” sound made further back in the throat. English has no letter for it, so writers chose either k or q. Older European scholarship often used “Koran” (and “Alcoran” before that). Modern systems for writing Arabic in Latin letters use q for qaf, which gives “Quran”.
What does the apostrophe in Qur’an mean?
The apostrophe in Qur’an marks a glottal stop (the Arabic hamza) — a brief catch in the voice between “Qur” and “an”. Academic books often keep it, sometimes with a line over the a (Qurʾān) to show it is long. Everyday writing usually drops both marks.
Which spelling should you use?
- Quran is the most common spelling in news media, on Muslim websites and in search.
- Qur’an is common in academic writing and in many published translations.
- Koran still appears in older books, some dictionaries and some newspapers, but many Muslims prefer “Quran” because it is closer to the Arabic.
Whichever you choose, be consistent within one piece of writing. If you are writing for a Muslim audience, “Quran” or “Qur’an” is the safer choice.
What the word means
The word comes from the Arabic root q-r-’, connected with reading and reciting, so it is usually translated as “the recitation”. The name reflects the central role of recitation in Islam: the Quran is recited in every prayer and memorised by millions of people. Read more in what is the Quran?
Names for the Quran in other languages
Around the world the Quran is called by names that add a word of respect. In Arabic it is often al-Qur’an al-Karim, “the Noble Quran”. In Urdu and across South Asia people say Quran Majeed (“the Glorious Quran”) or Quran Pak / Quran Sharif (“the Pure” or “the Noble Quran”). In Indonesian and Malay it is Al-Quran, in Turkish Kur’an-ı Kerim, and in Persian Qur’an-e Majid. All of these refer to the same Arabic text.
“The Quran” or “the Holy Quran”?
In English writing, “the Quran” is neutral and correct. Muslims often say or write “the Holy Quran” or “the Noble Quran”, and many printed translations use these titles. In formal or academic writing, “the Quran” or “the Qur’an” on its own is usual; in writing for Muslim readers, adding “Holy” or “Noble” is a natural mark of respect. The word is always capitalised, like the names of other scriptures.
Other spellings you may see
Related words are written in several ways too: surah or sura (chapter), ayah or aya (verse; plural ayat), juz or para (one of 30 parts), and Quranic or Koranic for the adjective. Misspellings such as “quron”, “qaran” or “quaran” are common in searches; they all refer to the same book.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it spelled Koran or Quran?
- Both are used, but Quran (or Qur'an) is the usual spelling today and is closer to the Arabic. Koran is an older spelling.
- How do you pronounce Quran?
- Roughly “kur-AHN”, with the first sound made further back in the throat than an English k, and a short catch before the second syllable.
- Do you say 'the Quran' or just 'Quran'?
- In English it is usual to say “the Quran”, just as one says “the Bible”. Muslims often say “the Holy Quran” or “the Noble Quran” as a mark of respect.
This article explains common understanding and history for general readers; it is not a religious ruling. For questions of practice, consult a qualified scholar. See the disclaimer.
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