Forward

I will be the first to admit that I grew up with Monty Python, The Benny Hill Show, and Up Pompeii.  As a child, these shows made me believe that this far away place called "England" was populated with amusing people--to say the least.  I can recall laughing hysterically at the stoic man with the "funny" accent who was saying "And now for something completely different."  In the background, I could see storefronts and signs with odd spellings including "colour," "centre," and "savoury."  And, for me, these differences were fascinating.  I wanted to learn more.

Over the years, I have enjoyed researching British English and American English.  Along the way, I have noticed one particular quotation coming up again and again.  It was a statement made by George Bernard Shaw.  He once said, "England and America are two countries separated by the same language."  I suppose authors love using this quote because Shaw had incredible insight.

One of the reasons why I created this web page was to share what I have learned.  I think it is important to examine the differences between Standard British English and Standard American English.  In all truth, not everyone is as perceptive as George Bernard Shaw.  (Of course, Shaw probably held this opinion of himself as well!)

Even though there are many similarities, British English and American English are not identical twins.  Most people know that the two languages differ in terms of pronunciation and spelling.  However, they are not always aware that the vocabulary and syntax are varied, too.  Also, Britain and America are culturally different.  So, the standard "word + context = meaning" formula doesn't always apply when words like "pants" mean "trousers" in America and "underwear" in Britain.

Cynthia Harper-Gosselin, MA English Communication Arts
Our Lady of the Lake University
December 8, 1999

ukenglish@yahoo.com