How to Correct Spell Check Language in Microsoft Word

If Microsoft Word is underlining correct words in red or blue, the document is likely set to the wrong language. Follow the steps below to correct it.

Option 1: Change the Language for the Entire Document

1. Press Ctrl + A to select all text.
2. Go to Review → Language → Set Proofing Language.
3. Select the correct language (for example, English (United States)).
4. Make sure 'Do not check spelling or grammar' is unchecked.
 5. Click OK.

Option 2: Change the Language for Only Part of the Document

1. Highlight the text with incorrect spell check.
2. Go to Review → Language → Set Proofing Language.
 3. Select the correct language and click OK.

Option 3: Prevent the Language from Reverting

1. Select the affected text.
2. Go to Home → Styles.
3. Right-click Normal and select Modify.
4. Click Format → Language.
 5. Select the correct language and click OK.

Option 4: Set the Default Language for New Documents

1. Open Word.
2. Go to Review → Language → Set Proofing Language.
3. Select your preferred language.
 4. Click Set As Default and confirm.

When to Contact IT

Please submit an IT ticket if the language resets after saving, spell check does not work in any document, or the required language is missing.