difference between american and british english

Difference between American and British English

Introduction

When it comes to the English language, there are two main types of English: American and British. Although both are essentially the same language, there are a number of subtle differences in vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation, and grammar. In this article, we will delve into these differences and explore the distinct characteristics of American and British English.

Vocabulary

One of the most noticeable differences between American and British English is the vocabulary used in each. For instance, some common words used in American English have different equivalents in British English. For example, in American English, the word ‘apartment’ is used when referring to a rented living space, while in British English, the word ‘flat’ is used.

Similarly, other words such as ‘truck’ and ‘lorry’, ‘garbage’ and ‘rubbish’, ‘cookie’ and ‘biscuit’ are commonly used in American and British English respectively, and using the wrong term can cause confusion.

Spelling

Another key difference between American and British English is the spelling of certain words. In general, British English tends to follow the traditional spelling rules, while American English has developed its own variations over time.

For example, while British English uses the spelling ‘colour’, American English uses the spelling ‘color’. Similarly, British English uses the spelling ‘centre’, while American English uses ‘center’. There are a number of other examples, but the key point is that there are some distinct differences in spelling between the two types of English.

Pronunciation

The way words are pronounced can also vary between American and British English. In general, British English tends to have a more formal and traditional pronunciation, while American English has a more relaxed and informal mode of pronunciation.

For example, the word ‘schedule’ is pronounced ‘shed-yool’ in British English, while in American English, it is pronounced ‘sked-yool’. Similarly, the word ‘herb’ is pronounced with a silent ‘h’ in American English, while in British English, the ‘h’ is pronounced.

Grammar

Lastly, grammar is another area where American and British English can differ. While the basic grammar rules remain the same in both, there are subtler differences between the two.

For instance, in British English, collective nouns are generally treated as singular, while in American English, they can be treated as either singular or plural. Similarly, while the past participle of ‘get’ is ‘got’ in British English, it is ‘gotten’ in American English.

Conclusion

In summary, although American and British English are essentially the same language, there are a number of differences that can cause confusion for non-native speakers. From vocabulary and spelling to pronunciation and grammar, it is important to be aware of these differences in order to use the appropriate language in different situations. By mastering both forms of English, you can be sure to communicate effectively in any English-speaking context.

Table difference between american and british english

Word	American English	British English
Color	Color	Colour
Center	Center	Centre
Traveling	Traveling	Travelling
Labor	Labor	Labour
Honor	Honor	Honour
Aluminum	Aluminum	Aluminium
Artichoke	Artichoke	Globe artichoke
Diaper	Diaper	Nappy