American English to British English Vocabulary

While pronunciation, grammar, and spelling are among the many differences between American and British English, perhaps the most difficult to navigate is the difference in American and British vocabulary and word choice. 

American and British Vocabulary and Word Choice

Many students are confused about word differences between American and British English. Generally speaking, it's true that most Americans will understand British English speakers and vice versa despite the many differences. As your English becomes more advanced, however, it becomes more important to decide which form of English you prefer. Once you've decided, try to stick to one form or the other in all aspects including pronunciation differences: General American or Received Pronunciation. This consistency is key to clear English communication.

The following list provides common American English vocabulary and word choices and their British English equivalents arranged in alphabetical order. Which words are already most familiar to you?

Now, test your knowledge with the two quizzes below.

American to British English Vocabulary Quiz

Replace the American English word in italics with a British English word. 

1. I'd like to hang the drapes tonight. Do you have time?
2. We took the elevator to the 10th floor.
3. Would you like to see a movie tonight?
4. Have you seen Tim's new apartment yet? It's very nice.
5. Run down to the drug store and buy some aspirin, please. 
6. Let's go to the bar and get a drink.
7. I'll take the garbage out before I leave tomorrow morning.
8. Take the second exit at the traffic circle.
9. Let's get have some potato chips with lunch. 
10. Could you hand me the flashlight so I can take a look in the closet?
11. Peter wore a pair of slim fitting pants to the party.
12. She opened the tap and watered the garden.
13. Have you ever worn a vest with a suit?
14. I'll pick up the mail on the way home from work.
15. Could you buy me a pair of pantyhose at the mall?

Answers

1. curtains
2. lift
3. film
4. flat
5. chemist's
6. pub
7. rubbish
8. roundabout
9. crisps
10. torch
11. trousers
12. spigot 
13. waistcoat
14. post
15. tights

British to American English Vocabulary Quiz

Replace the British word in italics with an American English word.

1. We need to find a public toilet soon.
2. Let's get the pram and take a walk with Jennifer. 
3. I'm afraid I had a puncture and had to get it fixed.
4. Could you bring in that tin of tuna over there?
5. He puts his trousers on like any other person.
6. She's very mean with her money. Don't ask her for any help.
7. I generally don't wear a suit with a waistcoat.
8. We should ask a constable for help.
9. Let's go to the off-license and get some whiskey. 
10. Get on queue and I'll get us something to eat.
11. Grab a tea-towel and clean that up.
12. Look at the schedule and see when the train leaves.
13. The car has a dent in the wing.
14. Choose a sweater from the wardrobe and let's get going.
15. The lights have gone out, and we'll need a torch.

Answers

1. restroom
2. baby carriage
3. blow-out
4. can
5. pants
6. stingy
7. vest
8. patrolman
9. liquor store
10. line
11. dish-towel
12. time table
13. fender
14. closet 
15. flashlight