BRITISH AND AMERICAN DIFFERENCES-6 (REVISION)

Good morning.

Today we will finish our comparison of standard US and UK English by looking at some vocabulary differences. This is really where we see the majority of the differences. We only look at a few examples to demonstrate the confusion that can be caused, but if you want more information you can consult Glenn Darrahg's book A to Zed, A to Zee (Editorial Stanley 2000) or Susan Stempleski's BBC American English OK! (Difusión 1998).

Chaleco (Esp.)
Vest (US) vs. Waistcoat (UK)

Camiseta de tirantes (para hombres) (Esp.)
Tank top (US) vs. Vest (UK)

Ascensor (Esp.)
Elevator (US) vs. Lift (UK)

Lata (Esp.)
Can (US) vs. Tin (UK)

Patatas Fritas (Esp.)
French Fries (US) vs. Chips (UK)

Patatas Fritas "de bolsa" (Esp.)
Potato Chips (US) vs. Crisps (UK)

IVA (Esp.)
Sales Tax (US) vs. VAT = Value Added Tax (UK)

FAG
Homosexual (US) vs. Cigarette (UK)

We could, of course, give a lot more examples. However, the objective is simply to make a point. Although there are very few differences between UK and US English with respect to spelling and grammar, there are differences in vocabulary that really can cause confusion. Although it's not worth becoming obsessed about these differences, it's good to be aware of some of them to avoid awkward situations and miscommunication.

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Have a good day.