| Learn English Grammar, Vocabulary Practical English Usage, Writing Grammar terms and Speaking |
|
Reference Desk Home English Grammar Practical English Usage Grammatical Terms English Writing English speaking Vocabulary English Grammar Worksheets Business English TOEFL IELTS Interactive Pages English grammar and vocabulary exercises |
|
American English and British EnglishDifferences in grammarThese two varieties of English are very similar that most American and British speakers can understand each other without great difficulty. There are, however, a few differences of grammar, vocabulary and spelling. The following guide is meant to point out the principal differences between American English (AE) and British English (BE). Differences in GrammarUse of the Present PerfectThe British use the present perfect to talk about a past action which has an effect on the present moment. In American English both simple past and present perfect are possible in such situations.
Other differences include the use of already, just and yet. The British use the present perfect with these adverbs of indefinite time. In American English simple past and present perfect are both possible.
PossessionThe British normally use have got to show possession. In American English have (in the structure do you have) and have got are both possible.
Use of the verb GetIn British English the past participle of get is got. In American English the past participle of get is gotten, except when have got means have.
Will/ShallIn British English it is fairly common to use shall with the first person to talk about the future. Americans rarely use shall.
In offers the British use shall. Americans use should.
NeedIn British English needn't and don't need to are both possible. Americans normally use don't need to.
|
|
Can't find it?
Custom Search
Subscribe and win a grammar eBookSubscribe to our feed by email and win an eBook titled '120 Grammar and Vocabulary Mistakes to Avoid'. The download link will be sent by email. Please make sure that you have enabled links and images in your email.
|
| English Grammar | | Practical English Usage | | Grammatical terms | | English Writing | | English speaking | | Vocabulary | |
| About Us | | Home | | Link To Us | | Links | | Terms of Use | | Advertise With Us | | Site Map |
| Contact: perfectyourenglish@yahoo.co.in |
| Copyright © 2006 - 2008 perfectyourenglish.com All Rights Reserved. |