Hustle vs Hussle: Which Spelling Is Actually Correct?

Have you ever seen “hustle” vs “hussle” used interchangeably and wondered which one is right? The confusion is common, especially in casual writing or social media posts. Hustle vs Hussle: Which Is Correct The correct spelling is “hustle”—with one s—which means to work hard, move quickly, or push forward with energy and determination. The term has become popular in modern culture, symbolizing grind, ambition, entrepreneurship, and street-smart effort. 

On the other hand, “hussle” is often seen as a misspelling, though it gained attention as part of the late rapper Nipsey Hussle’s stage name. In standard English, “hustle” is the only grammatically and professionally correct form. In this guide, we’ll break down the difference, correct usage, and why spelling matters in communication, branding, and professionalism.

Hustle or Hussle – What’s the Correct Spelling?

Let’s cut right to the chase.

Hustle is the correct spelling in standard English.

Hussle is not recognized as a valid English word and is generally considered a misspelling—except when it’s used as a name, such as in “Nipsey Hussle.”

You’ll find “hustle” in every major dictionary, from Merriam-Webster to Oxford. “Hussle”? Nowhere to be found—unless you’re looking up a proper noun.

Why Is There Confusion Between Hustle and Hussle?

There are several reasons people mix these up, and most of them are cultural or linguistic, not grammatical.

Phonetic Similarity

“Hustle” and “hussle” sound identical. Whether you’re saying it in New York, London, or Sydney, your ears won’t distinguish the spelling. That’s part of the problem. People spell it the way it sounds, and in this case, the double “s” feels natural—but it’s not correct.

Pop Culture Influence

The late rapper Nipsey Hussle made the spelling “Hussle” globally known. His legacy, music, and entrepreneurship elevated his name—and his name’s spelling—into the spotlight.

Because his name is spelled “Hussle,” many assume it’s a valid alternative to “hustle.” But in truth, his stylized name was a brand, not a grammar rule.

“I’m about seeing long-term, seeing a vision, understanding nothing really worthwhile happens overnight.”
— Nipsey Hussle

Slang and Internet Spelling

The internet isn’t exactly grammar-friendly. People write how they speak, often skipping spell-check altogether. Combine that with music lyrics, memes, and hashtags, and you end up with a generation casually using “hussle.”

What Does “Hustle” Really Mean?

“Hustle” is a rich, flexible word with several meanings depending on the context. Here’s a breakdown of its uses.

Definitions of “Hustle”

Part of Speech	Meaning	Example
Noun	Energetic effort or hard work	“Her hustle got her the promotion.”
Verb	To move quickly with urgency	“He hustled across the street.”
Verb (slang)	To earn money through effort or creativity	“She’s hustling with two side gigs.”

It’s used in formal, informal, business, sports, and street settings. It’s even become a cultural term: “hustle culture,” “side hustle,” and “rise and grind.”

Is “Hussle” Even a Word?

The short answer: No. “Hussle” is not recognized in the English language as a proper word.

It doesn’t appear in dictionaries. It isn’t taught in schools. It’s not used in journalism or publishing unless referencing a person named Hussle, such as the rapper.

So why do people still use it?

• Because it’s a stylized name
  
• Because of social media influence
  
• Because they don’t know better
  

This is why it’s crucial to understand when spelling counts. Writing an email to your boss? Stick with “hustle.” Tweeting a Nipsey Hussle quote? Go ahead with “Hussle.”

Hustle vs Hussle: Clear Comparison

Feature	Hustle	Hussle
Correct Spelling	Yes	No
Dictionary Status	Included in all major dictionaries	Not found
Formal Usage	Common and appropriate	Not used unless as a proper noun
Slang Usage	Widely accepted	Sometimes used, but incorrect
Examples	“He has a strong hustle.”	“Nipsey Hussle was a legend.”

The chart speaks for itself. If you’re not referencing a name, use “hustle.”

Common Synonyms of “Hustle”

Depending on your context, the synonyms of “hustle” vary. Here’s a breakdown.

If you’re talking about effort or work:

• Strive
  
• Grind
  
• Labor
  
• Persevere
  
• Endeavor
  

If you’re describing fast movement:

• Rush
  
• Hurry
  
• Bolt
  
• Dash
  
• Sprint
  

If you’re referring to a side business:

• Side gig
  
• Freelance work
  
• Part-time hustle
  
• Moonlighting
  
• Gig economy
  

These words can be used to spice up your writing and avoid repetition.

Sentence Examples Using “Hustle”

Let’s look at “hustle” in action:

Formal Usage

• “Our team’s hustle secured the contract.”
  
• “The company rewards hustle and results.”
  

Slang/Modern Usage

• “He’s on his hustle every single day.”
  
• “If you’re not hustling, you’re losing.”
  

Motivational/Quote Style

• “Hustle beats talent when talent doesn’t hustle.”
  
• “Dream big, hustle harder.”
  

Avoid writing:

• “He’s on his hussle.” (Incorrect spelling unless referencing a person)
  

The Origins of “Hustle”

Understanding a word’s origin helps reinforce its correct spelling and usage.

• Origin: Derived from the Dutch word “hutselen”, which meant “to shake” or “to toss.”
  
• Introduced to English: Around the 1600s–1700s.
  
• Early Usage: Meant to push or move rapidly.
  
• Modern Evolution: Became associated with effort, ambition, quick movement, and business savvy.
  

Timeline of Evolution

Period	Meaning
1600s	To push or shove roughly
1700s	To move quickly or energetically
1800s	To trick or deceive
1900s	To work hard, often through tough means
2000s+	Entrepreneurial drive and side gigs

It’s a word that has evolved—but its spelling hasn’t.

The Influence of Nipsey Hussle

No discussion on “Hussle” would be complete without mentioning Nipsey Hussle.

Born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, Nipsey was a Grammy-nominated artist and entrepreneur. His name—a play on “Nipsey Russell” and “hustle”—was intentionally stylized as “Hussle.”

His brand was about motivation, ownership, and legacy.

“If you don’t know your value, you’ll never be able to hustle.”
— Nipsey Hussle

His unique spelling became iconic—but it’s not a rule. “Hussle” is a name, not an English word. That’s the key takeaway.

Final Verdict: Hustle or Hussle?

So, what’s the conclusion?

• Use “hustle” when referring to work, ambition, movement, or effort.
  
• Use “Hussle” only when referencing proper nouns like Nipsey Hussle.
  
• In writing, branding, and content creation, stick with the correct spelling unless breaking the rules for stylistic or creative reasons.

FAQs:

1. What is the difference between Hussle and Hustle?

“Hustle” is the correct spelling meaning hard work or energetic activity. “Hussle” is mainly a name or slang, often linked to rapper Nipsey Hussle, and not a standard word.

2. What is the meaning of Hussle?

“Hussle” doesn’t have a standard dictionary meaning. It’s mostly recognized as a proper noun or part of slang from popular culture.

3. What is a Hussle slang?

As slang, “Hussle” refers to street smarts, perseverance, or a lifestyle of grinding. It’s popularized by artists like Nipsey Hussle and their message of ambition.

4. Does hustle mean struggle?

Hustle often means working hard with energy, not just struggling. However, it can imply overcoming challenges or pushing through difficulties.

5. What is meant by hassle?

A hassle is an annoying problem or inconvenience. It refers to something that causes trouble or frustration.

6. What is called hustle?

Hustle means to move quickly or work diligently toward a goal. It also describes energetic effort, especially in business or sports contexts.

Conclusion:

In the end, “hustle” is the only correct and widely accepted spelling in standard English. It conveys important ideas like hard work, ambition, and persistence, whether you’re talking about business, sports, or daily life. While “hussle” may appear in names or pop culture references—like Nipsey Hussle—it’s not recognized as a correct spelling in grammar or dictionaries. For clear, professional, and effective communication, always choose “hustle.” Spelling it right not only shows attention to detail but also ensures you’re understood in both written and spoken language.