British English and American English: What’s the Difference

When people talk about learning “English,” they often forget – there’s more than one kind. From spelling and vocabulary to pronunciation and culture, British English and American English have subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences. And if you’re preparing for an exam, planning to move abroad, or just binge-watching shows… Those differences actually matter. A lot.

Let’s break it down.

1. Exams and Academic Standards

If you’re studying English to take an international exam, it’s important to know:

Not all English exams are based on the same version of English.

American English-based exams:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
2. Duolingo English Test

These tests are commonly required for universities and employers in the United States and Canada, and they follow American English standards. You’ll see:

• spelling like color, center, organize
• vocabulary like elevator, apartment, trash can
• accents in listening sections that reflect American pronunciation

British English–based exams:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
2. Cambridge English Qualifications (FCE, CAE, CPE)

These are often used for studying, working, or immigrating to the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe. You’ll encounter:

• spelling like colour, centre, organise
• vocabulary like flat, lift, bin
• audio with a range of British, Australian, or even Irish accents

Why it matters:

The test won’t "penalize" you for using the wrong version – but consistency is key. If you spell organize in one part of the writing section, don’t suddenly switch to organise in the next. Likewise, if you're listening for apartment, and the speaker says flat, it helps to already know both. For your convenience, here are examples of American vs. British exam usage:

2. Relocation and Career Goals

Planning to work or live in an English-speaking country? Then you’ll want to match your English to the place you’re going. While British and American English are mutually understandable, they each reflect different workplace cultures, communication styles, and everyday vocabulary. This becomes especially important when you’re writing a CV, preparing for a job interview, or simply chatting with new colleagues.

Moving to the U.S. or Canada? → Focus on American English.

You’ll send a resume (not a CV), write a cover letter, and talk about your major (not your university “course”).

Moving to the U.K., Ireland, Australia or New Zealand? → Use British English as your foundation.

You’ll apply with a CV, mention your degree course, and possibly say you're going “on holiday” instead of “on vacation.”

Why This Matters:

Employers often expect you to communicate in the local style – especially in emails, written applications, and daily workplace communication. Using the “wrong” version won’t always hurt you – but it can feel out of place, or even slightly careless. For example, applying to a British company with a “resume” instead of a “CV” may make it seem like you copied a U.S.-based template without adjusting it – even if your qualifications are great. It’s also about culture. In the U.S., business English tends to be direct, upbeat, and casual. In the U.K. and Commonwealth countries, it’s often more formal and polite, with subtle tones and indirect phrasing:

U.S.: “Let me know ASAP. Thanks!”

U.K.: “Would you mind letting me know at your earliest convenience?”

So, before sending a job application:

• Double-check your spelling (organize vs organise)
• Adjust your vocabulary (vacation vs holiday)
• Tailor your tone (especially for cover letters)

This small step shows attention to detail, respect for local norms – and makes your application feel tailored and thoughtful, not generic.

3. Media and Pop Culture

Let’s be honest: many of us learn English not just from textbooks – but from TV shows, YouTube, TikTok, movies, and music. That’s great! But here’s the catch: the type of English you hear depends on what you’re watching. Some platforms and productions use mostly American English, while others use British – and the difference is bigger than you might think.

If you love Netflix, HBO, Marvel, TikTok → You’re mostly getting American English

These shows (Friends, Stranger Things, Wednesday, Suits, The Office)  and creators often use:

1. simplified pronunciation (words are more blended)
2. casual vocabulary and contractions
3. a lot of slang and pop-culture expressions

Examples:

“I’m gonna grab some coffee.”

“You good?”

“That’s lit.”

“Can I get a check?” (restaurant)

If you’re into BBC, British dramas, or YouTube creators from the UK → You’ll hear British English – often with regional accents.

These shows (The Crown, Peaky Blinders, Downton Abbey, Sherlock, Sex Education, etc.) may use:

1. different vocabulary and spelling
2. a more formal tone (especially in period dramas)
3. accents that range from posh to working-class

Examples:

“I’m going to bin the rubbish.”

“Fancy a cuppa?” (= Would you like some tea?)

“That’s a load of rubbish.”

“She’s in hospital.” (🇬🇧 no “the”!)

So if you binge-watch Bridgerton and then go on Duolingo, you might wonder why the phrases don’t match – and that’s totally normal.

Pro Tip: Mix your input! Watch and listen to both versions of English. Here's how:

1. Turn on English subtitles to match pronunciation with spelling
2. Pause and repeat slang or idioms you don’t recognize
3. Try shadowing (repeat after the character)
4. Keep a small “Netflix Vocabulary Notebook”

So… Which One Should You Learn?

There’s no wrong answer – both versions are correct and respected. But here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

And honestly – you don’t have to choose just one. The key is to recognize the differences, stay flexible, and adapt based on your situation.

Practice in Real Conversations 

Knowing the theory is one thing. Actually using it in conversation? That’s where the magic happens. Our English classes in Washington D.C. are designed for learners who want to:

• move beyond grammar drills and into real conversations,
• hear and practice American English in a relaxed setting,
• get confident with differences in accent, vocabulary, tone, and phrasing.

You’ll talk with teachers and classmates from around the world – just like in real life. Each class helps you build fluency in modern spoken English, ask questions and get live feedback, and get comfortable sounding like yourself in English. Whether you're preparing for an exam, a job interview, or just your next Netflix binge – at ICLS your English becomes real.