Video:Learn ESL: Vocabulary Differences in British and American English
with Heather BlanchardVocabulary differences in British and American English are important to know and can be useful for ESL students. Learn some of the most common vocabulary differences in British and American English.See Transcript
Transcript:Learn ESL: Vocabulary Differences in British and American English
Hi, my name is Heather Blanchard. I'm an English teacher, I'm British, and I'm here to talk to you today about some of the major differences between British and American vocabulary.
Common Vocabulary Differences in British and American English
For example, if you say to a British person "I like your pants," they might be surprised that you are commenting on their underwear as they say 'trousers.' If someone describes a person as 'mean' in British English, it means someone who is not very generous. In American english it means nasty. If you ask for a rubber in the UK, it's used for erasing pencil marks, but in America this is contraception, so be careful!
More Vocabulary Differences in British and American English
Car parts are quite different. The British put their bags in the 'boot' of the car and the Americans, the 'trunk.' Food terms are quite different. For example the British eat a pack of 'crisps' and the Americans, a pack of 'chips.' We order a portion of 'chips,' and they order a portion of 'French fries.' British babies suck 'dummies,' and American babies, 'pacifiers.' The British put out their 'dustbin,' and the Americans put out their 'garbage can.'
Additional Vocabulary Differences in British and American English
There are many more examples of different words that are used, and both versions should be in your dictionary.
- Nappy / Diaper
- Garden / Yard
- Lift / Elevator
- Biscuit / Cookie
- Flat / Apartment
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