"Solitaire" and "patience" refer to the same type of single-player card games. The difference is purely geographic — American English speakers say "solitaire," while British English speakers say "patience." There is no actual gameplay difference.
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Single-player card games developed independently (or nearly so) in 18th century Europe. They spread through Germany and France before reaching Britain, where they acquired the name "patience" — reflecting the patience required to play alone and wait for the right cards. When these games reached North America, the term "solitaire" (from the French word for "alone") became dominant.
Regional Usage
| Region | Preferred Term |
|---|---|
| United States, Canada | Solitaire |
| United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand | Patience |
| Germany | Patience |
| France | Réussite (success) |
| Scandinavia | Kabal (from "cabal") |
Same Games, Different Names
What Americans call "Klondike Solitaire," Britons call "Klondike Patience." What Americans call "FreeCell Solitaire," Britons call "FreeCell Patience." Every game is identical — only the terminology differs.
The global domination of American technology companies (especially Microsoft Windows) has pushed "solitaire" into common use worldwide, even in countries that traditionally used "patience." Most younger players internationally now say "solitaire."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is solitaire the same as patience?
Yes — "solitaire" and "patience" are two names for the same single-player card games. American English uses "solitaire," British English uses "patience." The games are identical.
Why is it called patience in the UK?
"Patience" refers to the patience required to play alone and wait for favorable card arrangements. The name was common in Britain before "solitaire" (from French for "alone") became dominant in American English.
What do other countries call solitaire?
French speakers call it "réussite" (success). Scandinavians call it "kabal." Germans say "Patience" like the British. The American term "solitaire" has become globally widespread through Microsoft Windows.
Which came first — solitaire or patience?
The games developed roughly simultaneously in 18th century Northern Europe. "Patience" appears in British English documentation earlier than "solitaire" does in American usage, suggesting the British name is slightly older.
Are patience games harder than solitaire games?
No — patience and solitaire games are the same games. The name implies no difference in difficulty. Both terms encompass a range of games from very easy to extremely hard.