Understanding the differences between British and American English is highly important for success in your IELTS test. While these two forms of English share many similarities, there are distinct variations in spelling, vocabulary, and grammar. In the IELTS test, you have the flexibility to use either British or American English consistently throughout your responses. It is crucial, however, to avoid mixing the two styles and maintain consistency in your spelling choices. If you familiarise yourself with these differences and practice accordingly, then you can achieve your desired scores on the IELTS test.

British vs. American English - Key differences

British English and American English are two major variants of the English language that have evolved separately due to historical, cultural, and geographical factors. While they share many similarities, there are some differences in vocabulary, spelling, and grammar. Here are some key differences:

1. Vocabulary

British and American English have different terms for certain objects and concepts. For example, the British use "lorry" while Americans use "truck," "lift" instead of "elevator," and "biscuit" instead of "cookie." There are numerous examples of vocabulary variations, ranging from everyday items to specific terms in different fields. Here are a few examples of words that are completely different:

Words related to clothes:

Words related to food:

Words related to school:

Words related to home:

Words related to car:

Read more:

• Vocabulary for IELTS speaking

• All about IELTS Vocabulary

2. Spelling

There are several spelling differences between the two variants. For instance, British English generally retains the "u" in words like "colour," "flavour," and "neighbour," while American English drops the "u" in "color," "flavor," and "neighbor." Another difference is the doubling of consonants in certain words. British English spells "travelling," "cancelled," and "labelled," whereas American English spells them "traveling," "canceled," and "labeled." Here are some examples to make you understand it better:

Words with -RE/-ER

Words with -OUR/-OR

Words with -SE/-ZE

Words with -LL/-L

Words with -T/-ED

Additional Read: Common Spelling mistakes to avoid in IELTS

3. Grammar

While the basic grammar rules are generally the same, there are some differences in usage. For example, the British tend to use the present perfect tense more frequently, such as saying "I've just had lunch," whereas Americans might say "I just had lunch." The use of prepositions and verb forms can also differ in certain contexts.

Explore further: Avoid these Grammer mistakes in IELTS writing test

While there are a lot of differences between British and American English, there are multiple similarities as well. The IELTS test acknowledges and accepts both variants in terms of vocabulary, spelling, and grammar. Getting familiarity with vocabulary from both British and American English can be beneficial, as either may be used within the test. Regardless of the variant chosen, it is crucial to understand the correct spelling and proper grammatical usage of the given word.

Additionally, if you are planning to take an IELTS test or preparing for the same and to know more about it, Well in that case, you can connect to your nearest IDP IELTS test centres.

Read more insightful articles:

• Top Podcasts to improve English

• Top Tools to improve written English

• Know when to use formal and informal English

Book my test