Comparison of British and American English

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.

Contents

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.