There are many British words which are different to American words.
For example:

  • A lorry is a slimmer truck.
  • A lift is an elevator.
  • A fortnight is two weeks.
  • A chemist is a person who works in a drugstore.
  • A dual carriageway is a freeway.

Lisa and Sofia Efthymiou, an American mum and daughter, have listed below a few of the differences between British and American words.

Visit also our Glossary of British Words

We have arranged the words in categories to make viewing easier for school work.

 British and American Vocabulary
Clothes Parts of a Car
At School In and around the House
On the Road People
Buildings / Shops Sport
Let's Eat! Other Words
British and American Spellings Test Yourself

Clothes

In the UK, we would be embarrassed if people saw our pants. why?

 British English

 American English

Trousers
Pants
Pants / Underwear / Knickers
Underwear / panties
Jumper / Pullover / Sweater /
Jersey
Sweater
Pinafore Dress
Jumper
Vest
Undershirt
Waistcoat
Vest
Wellington Boots / Wellies
Galoshes
Mac (slang for Macintosh)
Rain Coat
Plimsolls
Gym Shoes
Trainers
Sneakers
Braces
Suspenders
Suspenders
Holds up stockings
Dressing Gown
Robe
Nappy
Diaper
Pinny / Apron
Apron
Polo Neck
Turtle Neck
Dressing Gown
Bath Robe
Swimming costume / Cozzy
Bathing Suit
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