British vs. American English: Key Differences You Should Know

British vs. American English: Key Differences You Should Know

English is a global language, but did you know there’s more than one version of it?
If you’ve ever wondered why a British person takes the lift while an American takes the elevator, you’ve already seen one of the many differences between British and American English.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the most important differences you should know—especially if you’re studying English or planning to travel, work, or communicate with people from English-speaking countries.

Vocabulary Differences

British English vs. American English

British English American English

Flat Apartment

Holiday Vacation

Lorry Truck

Biscuits Cookies

Trousers Pants

Petrol Gas Gasoline

Rubbish Trash/Garbage

Jumper Sweater

Spelling Differences

British Spelling vs. American Spelling

British American

Colour Color

Centre Center

Organise Organize

Travelling Traveling

Defence Defense

Pronunciation

Pronunciation can vary a lot, but one famous difference is the “r” sound:

• In American English, the “r” is pronounced clearly at the end of words like car or mother.

• In British English, especially Southern British accents, the “r” is often silent: car → cah.

Other vowel sounds, like in bath or dance, are also longer and softer in British English.

Grammar Differences

Some small but important grammar differences:

• Present Perfect Tense
  British: I’ve just eaten.
  American: I just ate.

• Collective Nouns
  British: The team are winning.
  American: The team is winning.

• Got vs. Gotten
  British: He has got better.
  American: He has gotten better.

Date Format

Even dates are different!

• British: 31 March 2025 or 31/03/2025

• American: March 31, 2025 or 03/31/2025

This can cause confusion if you're not careful, especially with numbers like 05/06/2025.

Which One Should You Use?

The good news is that both are correct!

• Use American English if you're preparing for TOEFL, working with American clients, or consuming American media.

• Choose British English if you're preparing for IELTS, planning to study in the UK, or enjoy British TV and films.

At A-1 English School, we specialize in American English and help students build confidence through conversation. We’ll also help you understand British variations when needed, so you can communicate globally.

Ready to practice your English with a real native speaker?
Book your 1-on-1 online lesson today and start building your confidence through real conversation!