How Do You Learn Key Phrases In British English?
Although it may seem like we speak the same language, Americans and Brits use many different words and expressions. Learning a bit of British English is the easiest way to consider yourself bilingual! Say “cheerio” for hello and good-bye. It is considered friendly and more informal. Say “cheers” for thank you and good-bye, or say “ta,” which is a slang abbreviation. Be careful on the road. The “Give Way” sign means yield, which doesn’t exist as a sign in Great Britain. Use “loo” for bathroom, “queue” for line, “bin” for garbage or trash can, “boot” for trunk (of a car), and “baggage” instead of luggage. Use “chemist” instead of pharmacy, and “tube” or “underground” for the subway. This will avoid any confusion. Use “crisps” for potato chips, and “chips” for fries. Refrain from use of the word “common” to mean popular; in Great Britain, it often means low-class. Avoid “bloody” or “shag” – these are off-color words in England.
