A guide on the differences between American and English culture 

There are vast differences in culture between  Americans and their British Commonwealth counterparts throughout the world.

American English is spoken in the USA, Canada and many Pacific Rim countries where America has exerted an influence.

British English is spoken throughout the British Commonwealth of 54 countries, some of the most notable being the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, with Canada being the exception. Although part of the Commonwealth, Canadians tend to speak a mixture of American and British English due to that country's proximity to the USA (although they spell the British way).

In the dictionary section, you will see how many words differ completely between the two "languages". This is a virtual "Yank to Limey speak" dictionary - the words are listed in alphabetical order by American English word. Or visit the search page to find a specific word or phrase.

The driving section examines the differences in driving practices (including an explanation of why Commonwealth countries drive on the left) while the drinking and eating sections explain the very different etiquettes prevalent between the two cultures.

In the section labeled other, you will find all sorts of miscellaneous differences including measurements, legal driving and drinking ages as well as lifestyle differences like choice of bedding and even how toilets differ!

The FAQ (frequently asked questions) covers those often asked questions about Commonwealthers and Americans. Questions such as why are American's called Yanks and the English called Limeys, and where does that "bloody" word come from the English use in every sentence?

Funny stuff covers various hilarious situations that can occur because of the differences in language and culture.

Spelling covers that vast and confusing differences in the ways of spelling the exact same word.

Pronunciation covers the differences in the way Americans and Commonwealthers sound certain words.

Slang is a new section that covers different slang words in the USA, Britain, Australia and South Africa.

Finally, if you want to know who I am and why I know so much about the difference between American and English culture, go here

Any and all feedback is most welcome. If you have any comments at all about this website, please make them here, even if all you want to say is cheers!!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Much of what I say at this site is a GENERALIZATION, OK? Yes, there are and will be exceptions to some of the things mentioned, as I can hardly take every nuance of every part of all these countries into consideration. PLEASE don't go writing me nasty emails about how I am wrong because you have been to a restaurant in America where the check is never brought unless asked for first! That would fall under my above mentioned EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULE!

This website is a tongue in cheek look at the differences in the culture and is not meant to be a definitive authority on the subject.

 

If you know of any words or differences I have missed please submit them to me here

Copyright © 2006 Bruce Longman. All rights reserved. Web Design by Longman Computer Solutions.