From variations in pronunciation to other ambiguities and complex cases, discover how different British English and American English actually are.
The distinct accent isn’t the only thing that sets British English apart from American English. While the language is essentially the same, both regions have shaped the way it’s used to depict a unique and almost separate dialect. From variations in pronunciation to other ambiguities and complex cases, discover how different British English and American English actually are.
English Comes to America
The English language was first introduced to North America during British colonization at the beginning of the 17th century. As American citizens fought to become separate from the monarch, they begin to distance themselves in more way than one. Everything, from English traditions and cuisine, began to change, and the alteration in the language was soon to follow.
Webster Declares American English Unique
Noah Webster believed it was important for America to establish itself as an independent nation, and he sought to assert its revolutionary nature through linguistics. Webster wrote and published the first American spelling, grammar, and reading school books as well as the first American dictionary. The linguist believed that the spelling of certain words should reflect the correct pronunciation, which is why some words are spelled differently in British and American English. For example, aeroplane/airplane, labour/labor, aluminium, aluminum.
Idioms and American/ UK Culture
As the language continued to evolve, idioms and slang developed differently in English and American English. That’s why certain terms and phrases have a different meaning in America and the UK. For example, an apartment building is known as a “block of flats” in the UK. Additionally, “costumes” in America are referred to as “fancy dress” in the UK. Keep that in mind when you’re invited to a “fancy dress party” while traveling through London — you’ll want to pack your cat ears instead of your ball gown!
VISIT ENGLAND WITH AESU!
AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal—designed just for people your own age. We are also able to design custom tours just for your group.
AESU offers several trips to London and the UK, including Cosmopolitan, Euro Spree, Explorer, Euro Focus, and our most popular tour, Great Escape. Explore England and its rich history and culture. Stroll through London, the muggle capital of the world – be sure to watch out for the Knight Bus!
If you have any questions or want help booking your next London adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website!