My spell checker had a field day with this one. But, here's hoping that it helps some of you writers out there who are writing about British characters. We use quite a few different words for things than what you Americans do, and if you use the wrong word, a Brit can immediately tell that a British character was written by an American, and it can take us out of the immersion. So here's my handy-dandy guide!
American version | British version
Jelly | Jam
Jell-o | Jelly
Trunk | Boot
Hood | Bonnet
Cart | Trolley
Mall | Shopping Centre
Parking Lot | Car Park
Eggplant | Aubergine
Zucchini | Courgette
Chips | Crisps
Fries | Chips
Candy | Sweets
Cotton Candy | Candy Floss
Faucet | Tap
Laundry | Washing
Store | Shop
Wrench | Spanner
Elliptical | Cross-trainer
Movie | Film
Movie Theatre | Cinema
Math | Maths
Elevator | Lift
Tack | Pin
Yard | Garden
Ladybug | Ladybird
Sweater | Jumper
Sneakers | Trainers
Pants | Trousers
Cookie | Biscuit
Pitcher | Jug
Restroom | Toilets
Bangs | Fringe
Bathrobe | Dressing Gown
Crib | Cot
Garbage | Rubbish
Trash Can | Bin
Pacifier | Dummy
Diaper | Nappy
Soccer | Football
Mail | Post
Mailman | Postman
Mailbox | Postbox/Letterbox
Vacation | Holiday
Stroller | Pushchair/Pram/Buggy
Semester | Term
Highway/Freeway | Motorway
Eraser | Rubber
Take-out | Takeaway
Principal | Headteacher
Truck | Lorry
Gas | Petrol
Apartment | Flat
Cross-walk | Zebra Crossing
Stove | Cooker
Line | Queue
Ground Beef | Minced Beef
Bill | Receipt
Cell Phone | Mobile Phone
Subway | Underground
Railroad | Railway
Teacher's Lounge | Staff Room
Doctor's Office | Doctors
Pharmacy | Chemist
Attorney | Barrister
Flashlight | Torch
Sidewalk | Pavement
Check | Bill
Swimsuit | Swimming Costume
Rainboots | Wellington Boots/Wellies
Overalls | Dungarees
Blinker | Indicator
Sweatpants | Tracksuit Bottoms/Joggers
Popsicle | Ice Lolly
Bandaid | Plaster
Period | Full Stop
Soda | Fizzy Drink
Antenna | Aerial
Airplane | Aeroplane
Fall | Autumn
If I've missed any, feel free to add your own in the comments!
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