In the previous lesson, we learned the differences with verbs in American and British English grammar. Here, we are going to share with you the differences of noun phrases in American and British English grammar, along with helpful examples and usage of the noun phrases in sentences. Learning the differences with noun phrases in American and British English will improve your English speaking, writing, listening, and communication skills. Let’s explore today’s lesson…
2. Differences with Noun Phrases
1. Group Nouns
The British can use a singular or a plural verb after a group noun.
GB: The committee needs/need more time.
- Holland isn’t/aren’t going to win.
The Americans prefer a singular verb.
US: The committee needs/need more time.
After a name the Americans always use a singular verb.
US: Holland isn’t going to win.
2. Two Nouns Together
When we use two nouns together, the first is not normally plural: a grocery store, a word processor. There are some exceptions in Britain, but Americans almost always use a singular noun.
- GB: a careers adviser
- US: a career counselor
- GB: an antique/antiques dealer
- US: an antique dealer
3. The with musical instruments
The British use the with a musical instrument (play the piano), but Americans sometimes leave it out (play piano).
4. The with hospital and university
The British talk about a patient in hospital and a student at (the) university. Americans say that someone is in the hospital or at the university.
5. This and that on the telephone
People in both countries say This is… to say who they are, but usage is different when they ask who the other person is.
- GB: Who is that?
- Mainly US: Who is this?
6. The pronoun one
Americans do not often use one meaning, ‘people in general’; and they do not use one’s or oneself.
- GB: One must consider one’s legal position.
- US: You must consider your legal position.
People must consider their legal position.
7. Numbers
The British use and between hundred and the rest of a number, but Americans can leave it out.
- GB/US: two hundred and fifty
- US only: two hundred fifty
8. Dates
There are a number of different ways of saying and writing dates. Americans often say July fourth. In Britain the fourth of July and July the fourth are the most usual.
Our Next Chapter is: Differences with Adjectives and Adverbs in American and British English
The previous Lesson is: https://engrdu.com/verbs-of-american-and-british-english-grammar/
