American vs. British English: 50 Key Differences for Professionals

If you are working for a US multinational in London, or a UK firm with clients in New York, you’ve probably noticed that "English" isn't always the same. While we understand each other, using the wrong term can sometimes lead to confusion—or at least a few raised eyebrows.

Here are the 50 most important differences for professionals.

Spelling: The -or vs. -our Battle

In the US, we keep it simple. In the UK, they keep the traditional French-influenced spelling.

• US: Color, Honor, Labor, Center, Organize.

• UK: Colour, Honour, Labour, Centre, Organise.

Vocabulary: In the Office

US Term	UK Term
Elevator	Lift
Apartment	Flat
Resume	CV
Vacation	Holiday
Schedule	Timetable
Trash can	Bin
Mail	Post

Vocabulary: Business & Finance

• US: Checking account / UK: Current account

• US: Inventory / UK: Stock

• US: Bill (money) / UK: Note

• US: CEO / UK: Managing Director

Grammar Nuances

• Collective Nouns: In the US, a team is playing. In the UK, a team are playing.

• Past Participles: US: "I have gotten." UK: "I have got."

Which one should you use? Consistency is key. If your client is American, use American English. If you are applying for a job in London, use British English. As I discussed in my Business English Phrases post, matching your audience's language is a sign of high professional intelligence.

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