What is the American and British English difference?
The American and British English difference is relatively small. For those who have been studying British English, the following will help familiarize (American spelling) you with some of the main differences.
Please note that there is no language known as “American.”
American English is properly understood to be a dialect of the English Language.
With this in mind, let’s look at what makes up the American and British English difference.
The following list shows general spelling differences between American and British English. From the familiar “re” of centre or theatre in British English to the “ize” of American English spelling of words like apologize or realize, these spelling differences, once learned, should not be a problem to those at the proficiency level of the language.
After all, the American and British English difference doesn’t prevent usfrom understanding one another. Unless, or course, you happen to be British or American and find yourself speaking to the other. ; -)
I recommend you learn one form and stick with it. After all, both forms are accepted in all examinations as long as you are consistent.
BRITISH ENGLISH
adviser
analyse
apologise/apologize
axe
behaviour
catalogue
centre
cheque
colour
councillor
counsellor
defence
dialogue
favour
favourite
enrol
fulfil
grey
honour
humour
instal
jeweller
jewellery
kerb (edge of pavement)
labelled
labour
liqueur
licence
litre
marvellous
metre
neighbour
organize/organise
plough
practise (verb)
practice (noun)
programme
pyjamas
quarrelled
realise/realize
signalled
skilful
theatre
through
travelled, -lling
tyre (on a wheel)
|
AMERICAN ENGLISH
advisor
analyze
apologize
axe/ax
behavior
catalog/catalogue
center
check
color
councilor
counselor
defense
dialog/dialogue
favor
favorite
enroll
fulfill
gray
honor
humor
install
jeweler
jewelery
curb
labeled
labor
liquor
license
liter
marvelous
meter
neighbor
organize
plow
practice (verb and noun)
program
pajamas
quarreled
realize
signaled
skillful
theater
through, thru
traveled, -ling
tire
|
Apart from differences in spelling, there are certain words used by the British that are quite foreign to many Americans. In like manner, many American words are certain to cause the British to raise an eyebrow or two. That said, we can still (for the most part) understand one another.
For more information about the
American and British English difference click on the preceding link. On the next page you will find the differences between American and British English vocabulary.
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