Differences Between American and British English ( With more examples and execises with answers) While there are certainly many more varieties of English, American and British English are the two varieties that are taught in most ESL/EFL programs. | Differences Between American and British English With more examples and execises with answers While there are certainly many more varieties of English American and British English are the two varieties that are taught in most ESL EFL programs. Generally it is agreed that no one version is correct however there are certainly preferences in use. The most important rule of thumb is to try to be consistent in your usage. If you decide that you want to use American English spellings then be consistent in your spelling . The color of the orange is also its flavour - color is American spelling and flavour is British this is of course not always easy - or possible. The following guide is meant to point out the principal differences between these two varieties of English. Use of the Present Perfect In British English the present perfect is used to express an action that has occurred in the recent past that has an effect on the present moment. For example I ve lost my key. Can you help me look for it In American English the following is also possible I lost my key. Can you help me look for it In British English the above would be considered incorrect. However both forms are generally accepted in standard American English. Other differences involving the use of the present perfect in British English and simple past in American English include already just and yet. British English I ve just had lunch I ve already seen that film Have you finished your homework yet American English I just had lunch OR I ve just had lunch I ve already seen that film OR I already saw that film. Have your finished your homework yet OR Did you finish your homework yet Possession There are two forms to express possession in English. Have or Have got Do you have a car Have you got a car He hasn t got any friends. He doesn t have any friends. She has a beautiful new home. She s got a beautiful new home. While both forms are correct and accepted in both British and American English have got have you
