Quote:
Originally Posted by ColinHowell
Not counting pronunciation differences, which don't show up in writing, there are also some big differences in vocabulary and spelling and even some grammar differences. Two simple examples of vocabulary differences: elevator (American) vs. lift (British), or flashlight (American) vs. torch (British). Usually it's easy for Americans and British to understand each other, but sometimes differences cause confusion.
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Just for extra emphasis, the same words can be used to mean different things between america and england. I wasn't aware that torch was the british 'flashlight', but if you mention a torch to someone in america they would picture something more like the olympic torch. Also, I've heard that a napkin means something very different to a british person when compared to an american person.