British English and American English are extremely similar. Within those two types of English, there is a wide variety of local dialects, accents and vocabulary.
Today we are going to look at 50 of the most common differences in vocabulary between these two types of English.
Of course, as English is one language, you will sometimes hear American English being used by someone from the UK and vice versa.
So let’s begin. It’s going to be fun!
#1
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#6
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#9
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#11
‘A post office‘ is used in both types of English. Americans do not say ‘a mail office’.
#12
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#28
For school or work, ‘uniform’ is used in both types of English.
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#36
In American English, ‘holiday’ refers to public days off such as Christmas and Easter. ‘Holiday’ is not used for going on a trip to relax.
#37
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#41
Nowadays, the term ‘fairy cake’ is not very common in the UK. The word ‘cupcake’ is far more common.
#42
In the UK, a ‘cookie’ usually refers to a large biscuit with chocolate chips in it.
#43
#44
In the UK, ‘fries’ are commonly served in restaurants and fast food chains. ‘Chips’ are larger, ‘fries’ are skinnier.
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#50
Can you think of any other differences between British and American English?
Fantastic! Thank you so much for reading. Please leave a comment!
Your teacher,
Arnel
