British English vs American English

English is a widely spoken language. We know this and assume it’ll be straightforward. However, between the two most popular accents, there are many differences. Differences include pronunciation, spelling and word choices. Grab a notebook and pen because here we will share some useful differences you need to know.


The first way that British and American English differ is with particular words. Here is a list of examples.

BRITISH

Holiday

Biscuit

Sweets

Football

Flat

Chips

Candy floss

Crisps

Taxi

Handbag

Purse

Jumper

AMERICAN

Vacation

Cookie

Candy

Soccer

Apartment

French fries

Cotton candy

Chips

Cab

Purse

Wallet

Sweater

Photo by Mong Bui on Unsplash

Another way British and American English differ is pronunciation of words

ORIGINAL

Aluminium

Vitamin

Mum

Water

Mobile

Tomato

BRITISH

Al-yu-min-yum

Vih-ta-min

Mum

Wah-ta

Mo-by-yul

To-mah-to

AMERICAN

A-loo-min-num

Vy-ta-min

Mom

Wodder

Mo-bul

To-may-to


Lastly, you may notice that the spelling of words differ.

Letter ‘S’ or ‘Z’

American English – Realize, organize, apologize

British English – Realise, organise, apologise

Adding the letter ‘U’

American English – Color, behavior, armor

British English – Colour, behaviour, armour


Hopefully, this brief introduction into the differences between British and American English has made things a little more clear. Feel free to check out more of our blog posts or sign up for a free class by visiting our site!