Hustle or Hussle: Which Spelling Is Correct?

Have you ever found yourself typing the word “Hussle”, pausing for a second, and wondering, “Wait, is that even right?”

You’re not alone. This spelling mix-up trips up thousands of people online every day.
From motivational memes to rap lyrics, this word shows up everywhere—sometimes spelled one way, sometimes another.

 So what gives? Is this just a typo that’s gone viral? Or is there actually some deeper meaning behind it?
Well, here’s the truth: the confusion between “Hustle” and “Hussle” isn’t just a random error.
It’s rooted in language, culture, branding, and influence, especially from one iconic figure who left a mark on modern vocabulary.
But if you’re writing a resume, blog post, or social media caption and want to get the spelling right, you need clarity.
Whether you’re chasing goals, quoting lyrics, or trying not to look foolish in a text, spelling matters.
And while autocorrect might not always be your best friend, this guide will be.
We’re going to break it all down: the definitions, the origins, the meanings behind each version—and when it’s okay to use either.
Plus, we’ll look at how Nipsey Hussle changed the game, and what that means for your keyboard.
No fluff, no filler—just the real answers to help you hustle smarter (see what we did there?).
By the end of this post, you’ll never mix them up again.
So let’s get into it: “Hustle” or “Hussle”—which one is actually correct?

What Does “Hustle” Mean?

Definition and Origins

Let’s start with the basics. “Hustle” is a word recognized by every major English dictionary. According to Merriam-Webster, hustle means to:

• “Push or force one’s way,”
  
• “Act aggressively in business,” or
  
• “Work hard with energy and urgency.”
  

The word dates back to the late 17th century, believed to have Dutch roots from the word hutselen, meaning “to shake or toss.” Over time, hustle took on new meanings in English, evolving from a physical push to a metaphorical one—like pushing forward in life.

Modern Usage of “Hustle”

These days, “hustle” has morphed into a badge of honor.
It’s not just about movement anymore—it’s about mindset.

People say things like:

• “I’ve got three side hustles.”
  
• “She’s got that hustle mentality.”
  
• “You’ve got to hustle to make it in this game.”
  

In today’s culture, hustle is synonymous with grind, grit, and growth.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, athlete, freelancer, or full-time parent—if you’re working hard, you’re hustling.

Is “Hussle” a Real Word?

Etymology and Recognition

Here’s where things get interesting. “Hussle” is not a recognized word in standard English dictionaries.

Look it up in:

• Oxford English Dictionary: Nope.
  
• Merriam-Webster: Still nope.
  
• Dictionary.com: Nada.
  

So, is it a typo? Technically, yes. But context changes everything.

When People Use “Hussle”

Despite not being a real word, “Hussle” gets a lot of mileage online.
You’ll spot it in hashtags, usernames, and especially when referencing Nipsey Hussle, the late rapper and entrepreneur whose legacy added a cultural twist to an otherwise incorrect spelling.

So while “Hussle” might not pass your grammar check, it carries real meaning for many people, especially in hip-hop and street culture.

The Influence of Nipsey Hussle

Who Was Nipsey Hussle?

Born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, Nipsey was more than just a rapper.
He was a visionary, community leader, and entrepreneur who turned his grind into greatness.

His stage name, Nipsey Hussle, was a nod to comedian Nipsey Russell, but the added twist—“Hussle”—was intentional.
It reflected his philosophy: hard work, ownership, and purpose.

He wasn’t just about lyrics. He invested in STEM programs, launched businesses in his own community, and left a powerful legacy behind when he passed in 2019.

Branding and Intentional Misspelling

Artists often tweak spellings for uniqueness. Think:

• Tupac Shakur → “Makaveli”
  
• The Weeknd (no “e”)
  
• Fabolous (instead of “Fabulous”)
  

Nipsey’s “Hussle” was the same—a deliberate rebrand of the original word to make it his own.
And it worked. “Hussle” became an iconic name, tied to inspiration and impact.

Why the Confusion Persists

Autocorrect and Typing Habits

Let’s be real—autocorrect can make things worse.
Type “Hussle” on some devices, and it gets corrected to “Hustle.”
Type “Hustle,” and some platforms may suggest “Hussle” if it’s in your personal vocabulary or social media history.

And if you’re someone who types based on what you see online, the line between the two gets even blurrier.

Phonetic Similarity

Both words sound exactly the same, right?
That’s the kicker. “Hustle” and “Hussle” are homophones in most accents—so unless you’re reading or writing, you’d never know which one was used.

This leads to a lot of mix-ups in text posts, comments, and even business branding.

How to Know Which Spelling to Use

Professional and Academic Contexts

If you’re writing an email, resume, school paper, or article:
👉 Always use “Hustle.”

It’s the standard, accepted, grammatically correct version.
Using “Hussle” in these situations might make it seem like you didn’t proofread—or worse, that you don’t know the difference.

Stick with:

• “She’s got the hustle to make it.”
  
• “His hustle paid off.”
  

Simple. Solid. Correct.

Creative and Cultural Exceptions

Now, if you’re referencing Nipsey Hussle, quoting lyrics, or naming your brand, that’s different.
“Hussle” becomes more than a word—it’s a name, a tribute, a movement.

Just be intentional.
Example:

• “Inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s vision.” ✔
  
• “We Hussle harder.” (As part of a brand name or slogan) ✔
  

Otherwise, stick to the tried-and-true “Hustle.”

Common Misspellings and Related Confusions

Other Words Often Misspelled Similarly

English is full of tricky words that sound right but look wrong.

Here are a few:

Word	Common Misspelling
Muscle	Mussle
Russell	Russel
Puzzle	Puzzel
Subtle	Subtel
Hustle	Hussle

Notice a pattern? Double consonants are often the culprit.

Tips for Avoiding Spelling Errors

Here are some quick hacks to keep “Hustle” straight:

• Mnemonic: “U” only hustle once, no double “S” needed.
  
• Use spell check with Grammarly or Hemingway Editor
  
• Read out loud—your ears catch what your eyes miss
  

Hustle in Pop Culture, Business, and Slang

Rise of the “Hustle” Mentality

We live in the age of the grind.

People juggle side gigs, run Etsy shops, flip sneakers, and chase freelance clients—all in the name of the hustle.

Social media feeds are packed with:

• #HustleHard
  
• #NoDaysOff
  
• #GrindDon’tStop
  

It’s not just a word anymore—it’s a lifestyle.

Shifts in Meaning Over Time

In the 1920s, “hustle” had shady connotations—think street scams or con artists.
By the 1980s, athletes “hustled” on the court.
Now in the 2020s, everyone from influencers to coders is in on the game.

Today, “hustle” means hustle—put in the work, earn the win.

Quick Comparison Table: Hustle vs. Hussle

Feature	Hustle	Hussle
Correct spelling	✅	❌
Found in dictionaries	✅	❌
Used as a verb	✅	❌
Associated with Nipsey Hussle	❌	✅
Professional writing	✅	❌
Slang/branding use	✅	✅ (intentional only)
Accepted by spell check	✅	❌

Conclusion

So let’s lock it in:

If you’re talking about hard work, chasing goals, or writing something formal, the correct word is “Hustle.”
It’s dictionary-approved, grammatically correct, and universally accepted.

On the flip side, “Hussle” holds deep meaning in cultural spaces—especially in reference to Nipsey Hussle—but it’s not a word you’d use in formal writing unless it’s a name or brand.

At the end of the day, it’s all about intent.
If you’re spelling for clarity, go with hustle.
If you’re honoring a legacy, Hussle it is.

Now you know the difference—and your spelling game just leveled up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is “Hussle” ever correct?
Yes, if you’re referring to Nipsey Hussle, a brand, or using it intentionally. Otherwise, it’s a misspelling.

What does “Hustle” mean in slang?
It means working hard, grinding, or getting things done by any means necessary.

Why did Nipsey spell it “Hussle”?
It was a branding choice to stand out and build a unique identity tied to perseverance and entrepreneurship.

Can I use “Hussle” in writing?
Only if it’s a name or creative branding. For everything else, use “Hustle.”

What’s the difference between “Hustle” and “Hustling”?
“Hustle” is a noun or verb. “Hustling” is the present participle form, used in sentences like “He’s hustling every day.”