Comparison of British and American English | 40+ Differences Illustrated
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Comparison of British and American English! English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and it is spoken in many different forms. One of the most notable variations of the language can be found between British and American English. While both forms of the language share many similarities, there are also some significant differences between the two.
In this article, we will be comparing British and American English, highlighting the key differences and similarities between the two. From vocabulary and pronunciation to grammar and idiomatic expressions, we will take a comprehensive look at the ways in which these two forms of the language differ.
Comparison of British and American English
List of Comparisons between American and British English
Below is the list of comparisons between American and British English:
British and American terms:
- crisps – chips; potato chips
- crocodile clip – alligator clip
- current account – checking account
- dressing gown – robe; bathrobe
- drink-driving – drunk driving
- drinks cupboard – liquor cabinet
- drinks party – cocktail party
- driving licence – driver’s license
- dustbin – garbage can
- faith school – parochial school
- ladybird – ladybug
- lift – elevato
- lolly – lollipop
- lorry – truck
- market garden – truck farm
- mobile phone – cell phone
- motorway – expressway; highway
- mum/mummy – mom/mommy
- pavement – sidewalk
- pedestrian crossing – crosswalk
- petrol – gas; gasoline
- postbox – mailbox
- potato crisp – potato chip
- public school – private school
- public transport – public transportation
- queue – line
- racing car – race car
- railway – railroad
- first floor – second floor
- flat – apartment
- football – soccer
- footway – sidewalk
- fringe (hair) – bangs
- full stop (punctuation) – period
- garden – yard; lawn
- ground floor – first floor
- holiday – vacation
- in hospital – in the hospital
- indicator (on a car)turn signal
- jumper – sweater
- junior schoo4l – elementary school
British and American English
There are several main differences in vocabulary between British and American English. Some of these include:
- Different terms for the same object or concept: For example, British English uses the word “lorry” for a large truck, while American English uses the word “truck.” Similarly, a “biscuit” in British English is a “cookie” in American English.
- Different words for common items: For example, British English uses the word “sweets” for candy, while American English uses the word “candy.” Similarly, a “flat” in British English is an “apartment” in American English.
- Different words for certain professions: For example, British English uses the word “solicitor” for a lawyer, while American English uses the word “attorney.” Similarly, a “chemist” in British English is a “pharmacist” in American English.
- Different words for certain clothing items: For example, British English uses the word “trousers” for pants, while American English uses the word “pants.” Similarly, a “jumper” in British English is a “sweater” in American English.
- Different words for certain food items: For example, British English uses the word “aubergine” for eggplant, while American English uses the word “eggplant.” Similarly, a “courgette” in British English is a “zucchini” in American English.
Conclusion
In conclusion, British and American English are two distinct varieties of the same language, which share a common linguistic history and many similarities in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. However, there are also significant differences between the two varieties, particularly in terms of vocabulary.
Understanding these differences is essential for effective communication and writing in both varieties of English. From different terms for the same object or concept, to different words for common items, professions, clothing and food items, these variations can cause confusion and mistranslation if not taken into account.
British vs. American English | Images
Comparison of British and American English – Pictures
