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

AMERICAN 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)

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.