The differences between British English & American English.
Just as there is a difference between the Spanish spoken in Spain and the Spanish spoken in Latin American countries, there’s a difference too between English spoken in the UK and the English spoken in the USA. If you're learning English, you've probably noticed that British and American English can seem like two different languages sometimes! While speakers from both countries can understand each other perfectly well, there are some important differences you should be aware of. Let's explore the main ones that might affect your day-to-day communication.
British & American English Differences
Here are some key areas in which the language is completely different!
Food and Dining
- UK: chips → US: French fries
- UK: crisps → US: chips
- UK: biscuit → US: cookie
- UK: aubergine → US: eggplant
- UK: courgette → US: zucchini
- UK: sweet/pudding → US: dessert
Home and Living
- UK: flat → US: apartment
- UK: lift → US: elevator
- UK: rubbish → US: garbage/trash
- UK: tap → US: faucet
- UK: wardrobe → US: closet
- UK: toilet/loo → US: bathroom/restroom
Transportation
- UK: boot → US: trunk (of a car)
- UK: bonnet → US: hood
- UK: petrol → US: gas/gasoline
- UK: motorway → US: highway
- UK: underground/tube → US: subway
- UK: return ticket → US: round-trip ticket
In Europe, it is more common to teach the British version of English whereas in Latin America, American English may be the norm.
What type of English are you learning?
Can you think of any more words that are different?
Let us know!
In Part 2, we’ll explore more differences, so be sure to come back!
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