BRITISH? AMERICAN? ENGLISH, ANYONE?

Little did I know that the English language was actually first introduced by British colonization to America in the late 16th century. And over time, the language form used in America and that used in the United Kingdom had evolved. The differences which up to now are being acknowledged range from vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, grammar, punctuation, idioms and even the dates and numbers format.

Have you noticed that the British way of writing the dates is dd/mm/yyyy while Americans use the mm/dd/yyyy format? Ever wondered why there are two ways of spelling the word color-colour where in fact they have the same meaning? Did you experience being embarrassed when you ordered chips but instead told the waiter you wanted to have “French fries” and got that “odd look”? Don’t worry because you are not so alone!

Thanks to the person who came up with the very first American dictionary, Mr. Webster, for making the differences between American and British English more ‘pronounced’ (no pun intended). Anyhow, I am not here to start a debate between American and British English fanatics. My intention is to at least help ease a little the culture shock brought about by the transition to those people who are migrating to the UK from countries which use the American English version such as the Philippines.

I will be sharing some of the British English terms that are usually encountered. It doesn’t hurt to know these words ahead so we will know how to react properly when we encounter them in a conversation. I am thinking that at least I am able to save us from continually saying “pardon?” and “I’m sorry?” Kidding aside, I, myself would just take English anytime, anywhere and anyhow in lieu of Maths! 😪😂

Please refer to the photo attachments for the terms and phrases.

Enjoy reading!☺️☺️☺️

P.S.

Let me correct in here the word CHEERIO which I misspelled as CHERRIO.

Thank you.