British Versus American English

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences As a professional English tutor, every now and then this question rises up: should I teach British English or American English? Before we answer the question, let's see how many versions of English exist:Table of Contents What are the differences? We categorize the differences in for main groups: Which one should be taught? Well, it depends: What if the students are learning English for business talks in different countries or just for travel? What materials to use? Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post We can think of British English, American English, Australian English, South African English, Canadian English. But let's just focus on one pair which most of the English course materials are based on them:...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas G.B. Shaw said, 'England and America are two countries separated by a common language.' The common language i.e. English taken by the British to America gradually evolved differently from its root language. Hence, the language spoken in Great Britain became the British English and the language spoken in the United States became American English. It wasn't just the variation in pronunciation, the vocabulary and spellings for few words also changed. To understand the differences, we should take a look at the roadmap of British and American English.Table of Contents The History of English Old English Renaissance New English British English vs. American English Do you want to teach English abroad or online? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas Many people who speak English are aware of the fact that American English and British English are similar yet different. There have been many debates about which one is better or correct. Some ways of speaking might be different if one would be speaking British English compared to American English.Table of Contents Spelling Rules Naming Phonetics Knowing the Differences Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Camilla R. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. British English has used its way of spelling words adopted from the French spelling, such as 'color' and 'humor'. While in American English, the...  [Read more]

Jon ITTT Alumni Experiences As more and more countries place a growing importance on its people to learn English as a secondary language, for work purposes or for general use, there is a growing debate about which is the better English to learn - British English or American English.Table of Contents Both versions are essentially the same Prioritise teaching "Good English" Certain students may need specific versions of English Points to consider when choosing a version to teach Exploring the differences can be an interesting lesson Don't get obsessed with minor differences Are you excited to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Max E. The argument stems from the growing influence of America in the...  [Read more]

Mark Crocker Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas How to teach the differences between American English and British English can be quite fun for the teacher and students alike. The differences are very interesting and cool to discover. I know that as an American I find it quite amusing to see what British speakers say compared to Americans.Table of Contents Biscuit or Cookie? The Differences in British and American Words Color or Colour? The Differences in Spelling Teaching Ideas for the Classroom Teachers Should Be Familiar With Both Forms of the Language Are you ready to teach English Abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Hailey M. There are many differences in words from American English and British English. Some are...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences When it comes to learning English, non-native speakers can feel quite torn on whether they should learn British English or American English. They have their similarities, but can contrast each other strongly. The differences can be confusing for English speakers as well. The diversity in spelling, pronunciation, and vocabulary can really throw you off. In this article, I will be focusing on these three topics. Let's explore spelling, shall we?Table of Contents Important Spelling Differences Differences in Word Choice Same Word - Different Pronunciation Other Things to Consider Are you ready to teach English abroad? Listen to this blog post Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Tabitha C. Growing up in the USA, I...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences The United States and the United Kingdom's imperial histories and modern influences have had a significant effect on the English wording. Since English was exported to different countries across the world, the language has undergone different variations, the most common one being the British English vs. American English. The British introduced the language to Americans in the 17th century. At that time, the spelling had not been standardized. Given the number of regions where English is used, differences are bound to arise. Even though British and American English may seem similar, there are disparities in vocabulary, spelling, and grammar.Table of Contents Listen to this blog post: Vocabulary Spelling Grammar Culture Do you want to teach English...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences For a student learning English as a second language, one thing they may notice is the difference in the accents between British English and American English, the difference is rather pronounced considering it has been less than two hundred and fifty years since the American Revolution. The American accent is likely to be more familiar to many students, thanks to many American movies from Hollywood.Table of Contents The Problem of Accents in English The History of English When it comes to spelling there are several differences Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Anthony B. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or...  [Read more]

Linda Dunsmore Alumni Experiences American English and British English are two varieties which are taught in English teaching programs around the world. Although it is accepted that no one version is corrected, there are certainly preferences in use. Someone who can speak, read or understand one variety of English, he/she'll also probably be able to understand most of the other varieties without problem.Table of Contents Pronunciation differences Vocabulary differences Spelling differences Grammar differences Are you ready to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Sumeyra Y. The differences between American and British English can be categorized in four ways: British English and American sound remarkably...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Why are British and American versions of English so different? British and American English, while, broadly speaking, are mutually intelligible (each party can understand and communicate with each other), there are notable differences that make one wonder why there is a difference at all? In this essay, I'll briefly discuss some key differences in these two dialects, and further, provide reasons and evidence explaining said differences.Table of Contents Differences between variants Reasons of variants derivation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Betsy W. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. If...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences In this essay, we are going to talk about two different versions of English which are American and British English.Table of Contents HISTORY ACCENT General American: General British: VOCABULARY SPELLING GRAMMAR Do you want to teach English abroad or online? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate ANDRII D. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. The English were introduced to America through British colonization in the early 17th century. It also spread to many other parts of the world due to the power of the British empire. Over many years American and British spoken...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences While both Americans and the British speak English, there are a few variations in the language which can cause some confusion for non-native speakers. Therefore, it is important to take a look at the most notable differences between these two versions of the English language.Table of Contents Spelling Grammar Pronunciation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Joseph Bart van der K. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. One of the key differences in the spelling of words. British English usually has their words in the same form as where they originated from, while American English tends to simplify...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences It's quite weird and confusing that English is different in different places. Many students are being taught in one way, while others in another way. Sooner or later they all face some problems in real-life communication. So, the question is, do they need to learn different versions of English or not?Table of Contents Confusion breeds confusion That strange English spelling British Grammar vs. American Grammar Are you excited to teach English abroad? Related Articles: Listen to this blog post: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Taylor K. A student from rural China grows up learning British English in his local language school. He applies to a university in the United States and gets accepted. When asking for directions to his...  [Read more]

British and American English showcase several key differences that learners should be aware of: These differences underline the richness and diversity of the English language, influenced by geographical and historical contexts. Table of Contents Differences in vocabulary Differences in grammar Collective nouns Have and take Prepositions Past tense verbs Differences in spelling Differences in dates Vocabulary discrepancies constitute a major source of confusion. Numerous words have distinct meanings in the two language versions. While teaching English, it is natural to focus on the words that make the most sense to you personally. However, it is important for students to be aware of alternative terms to avoid confusion later on. While the extensive list of vocabulary differences is too...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences Learning English is very difficult, there are many various grammatical and spelling differences between the English spoken throughout the world. Most notably is British and American English grammar. There are also differences in the pronunciation and meanings of many words. While you would think learning English would be a simple task, it is not, after all how different can English be from English? There are a few additional factors - Canadian, Australian, South African, Indian English, etc. have their own differences, these are differences that must be taken into consideration while you study the English Language.Table of Contents Why Learners Have to Know Variasions Differences in Spelling Differences in Pronunciation Differences in Vocabulary...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas English is one of the most dynamic languages on the planet, which develops every day. Therefore, there are a lot of variations of the English language. Which kind of English should we learn?Table of Contents English Variants There are many differences between American and British English. Moreover, American English was formed under the influence of immigrants' pronunciation from various countries. Now let's have a quick look at the differences in grammar. Why should we study British English instead of American? Do you want to teach English abroad or online? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: Check out what our course grads say in our many video testimonials! This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Olena K. Please note that this blog...  [Read more]

American English and British English are the two main varieties of the English language, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's how these forms of English differ: American English and British English are the two main forms of the English language, each with its own unique characteristics. The main differences between American English and British English include: Understanding the differences between forms of English, such as British English, American English, and others, is crucial for effective communication and language teaching. Here's why: Yes, learning different forms of English can greatly help in communicating with speakers from various backgrounds and regions. Understanding and being able to use different forms of English can enhance communication in a variety of ways,...  [Read more]

British and American English differs in several ways that encompass vocabulary, grammarand spelling, and a student is not wrong if they use either version. Teachers should teach the English that they themselves speak but also have an awareness of the differences between the two. If a teacher is required to teach a course book that is in a version of English different to their own, then they should teach the English used in the book. Some of the differences in vocabulary covered in this graphic are fairly well known such as ‘pavement’ (GB) and ‘sidewalk’ (US), others not so much as in the case of ‘fortnight’ (GB) and ‘two weeks’ (US). While the differences between the two don’t generally matter,...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! The differences between British English and American English are always fun to take a look at. Below are 40 differences between the two illustrated.   Learn the difference between American English vs British English. British vs American English 1. Post ………… Mail 2. Film ………… Movie 3. Rubbish ………… Garbage 4. Football ………… Soccer 5. Chips ………… Fries 6. Rubber ………… Eraser 7. Zip ………… Zipper ...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas One of the greatest and most spoken about topics I have come across, both in the English language classroom and in general conversation with people from all walks of life, is the use of US English and British English, and which of the two is more ''correct'' or ''better'' to learn, or even what sounds nicer to the ear. This is a controversial topic because the ideas surrounding these questions will be more favorable to one use or the other, depending on the influences both English types have in the country the student is studying in. Another factor that will affect opinions and thoughts on the subject is the personal history each student has with or both types of English. And how much they consume it in both...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences English is a language that, like other languages, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Sort of mash-up of ancient Germanic languages and Roman Latin, English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world thanks to the spread of British and American influence across the world over the last several hundred years. It is a tricky language, infamous for its many exceptions and grammatical nuances. While English, compared to some languages, has a relatively low variation between regional dialects (low enough for speakers of radically different dialects to understand each other at least partially), these differences can be significant enough to confuse someone who is learning English as a foreign language. Among the various dialects...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas This summative essay will exam the importance of teaching the differences between American English and British English for EFL learners. I will examine the intention behind teaching these differences, and when these teachings should be applied, and to what effect and purpose. This essay will focus primarily on the problems of pronunciation and spelling, which are the two main differences. I am a British citizen, born and raised in London, England, and currently teach at a public high school in Tokyo.Table of Contents Spelling Challenges for Beginners and Intermediate Learners What do Students Think? Grammar Interesting Experience for Adults Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas It is clear for a lot of people that American English is a little different from British English, but why exist these differences? Many languages are spoken in all the world, and some of them have different branches, in the case of British and American English, one of the reason for having these differences, for example en the word colour for UK and color for USA is because, British English has taken the original words from French and later in America the spelling has been simplified, here is a list of words that are different in UK and USA:Table of Contents Difficult Vocabulary for Spelling Grammar Pronunciation Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Juan Pablo...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas British English versus American English always sparks a lively discussion. I have read some articles so far as to compare these 2 languages and gather the information from the online resources.Table of Contents Personal experience The history of English Vocabulary challenge Teaching implications and classroom problems Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate Zahra J. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. I am Iranian and have many American and British friends and I have been living abroad for about 6 years. As an English speaker as a second language, it took me a while to learn what is British and what is...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas English is a demanding language because there are so many regional English words and pronunciations which require a great receptive skill to receive and understand for example can't in the UK is pronounced |kɑːnt|and in the US is pronounced |kænt |. The same English language, it is spoken quite differently; in the UK there is different pronunciation between the English spoken in Glasgow, London or Cardiff. It is also different in countries that have it as a primary language, such as Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, and New Zealand. For EFL students, Listening becomes a bit of a challenge, because of these pronunciation differences.Table of Contents English for Immigrants Differences Between BrE and AmE Spelling English...  [Read more]

SOURCE: www . lebonbon . co . uk/lifestyle/infographic-you-sound-like-youre-from-london/ Register now & get certified to teach english abroad!  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Teaching Ideas The new paradigm of teacher training in the system of higher pedagogical education is the concept of psychological and pedagogical training of a teacher as a holder of world culture. The study of foreign languages expands intercultural, inter-ethnic communication. The use of the linguistic-cultural component in the adaptation of educational language programs allows you to implement the principle of communication, to organize interested communication and interaction of students in the language and, thus, open access to the culture of other people and provide a dialogue of cultures.Table of Contents Linguistics and Culture Preferred Variant of English Lexical Differences between American and British varieties of English American variant vs. British variant...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina TEFL Information Alumni Experiences Teaching Ideas Today, English has become a common language of people with different native languages in many fields such as science, aviation, communication, and commerce. For this reason, knowledge of English has become a necessity for those who want to pursue an academic career or who want to work in internationally recognized business sectors. This fact puts English in the first place among the officially taught foreign languages in most countries. But which English should be referenced in English education? British or American English? The answer to this question is not clear in Turkey yet. In seeking a heuristic explanation, one can dwell on which version is more common in the world, how similar or different these two dialects...  [Read more]

Elizaveta Pachina Alumni Experiences British English versus American English are often discussed during the class, students frequently ask which one is the standard English to learn and would it cause any difficulties in communication. Both of them have differences and similarities, but individuals from the UK and the US can communicate without too much difficulty.Table of Contents What is Correct? The History of English Pronunciation Differences Spelling Do you want to teach English abroad? Take a TEFL course! Related Articles: This post was written by our TEFL certification graduate JIN G. Please note that this blog post might not necessarily represent the beliefs or opinions of ITTT. Besides, there is no right or wrong when the differences appear, the British may consider American do...  [Read more]

Register now & get certified to teach english abroad! Writing dates in English can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some common ways to write dates in British and American English.   What is the correct format for dates in English? This is something very important to teach your students when teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). How to write the date in English usually depends on the following things: Whether you write a formal letter or an informal note; and whether you use British or American English. Let's take a look at the examples below. As you can see, there are a number of ways in which you can write the same date. As a general rule we can say that the more complicated the style of date, the more formal it is. In British English (which is mainly used...  [Read more]