In this blog post, you’ll learn the key differences between noun phrases in American and British English grammar. We will provide examples and explain how these noun phrases are used in sentences across both dialects. Understanding these differences will enhance your English speaking, writing, and communication skills, helping you adapt to various English-speaking contexts.
Noun Phrases in American and British
1. Group Nouns
In British English, people can use either a singular or a plural verb after a group noun.
Example:
- British: The committee needs/need more time.
- British: Holland isn’t/aren’t going to win.
In American English, people usually prefer to use a singular verb.
Example:
- American: The committee needs more time.
- American: Holland isn’t going to win.
2. Two Nouns Together
When two nouns are used together, the first one is usually not plural: for example, a grocery store or a word processor. There are some exceptions in British English, but Americans almost always use a singular noun.
Example:
- British: a careers adviser
- American: a career counselor
- British: an antique/antiques dealer
- American: an antique dealer
3. Musical Instruments
In British English, people say “play the piano,” but in American English, they sometimes leave out “the” and just say “play piano.”
4. Hospital and University
In British English, they say someone is in hospital or at university. In American English, people say in the hospital or at the university.
5. This and That on the Telephone
Both British and American English use “This is…” to say who they are. But when asking who the other person is, the phrasing changes.
Example:
- British: Who is that?
- American: Who is this?
6. The Pronoun “One”
Americans don’t often use the word one to mean “people in general,” and they don’t usually say one’s or oneself.
Example:
- British: One must consider one’s legal position.
- American: You must consider your legal position.
People must consider their legal position.
7. Numbers
The British use “and” between hundreds and the rest of a number, but Americans often leave it out.
Example:
- British/American: Two hundred and fifty.
- American: Two hundred fifty.
8. Dates
There are different ways to say and write dates. Americans often say July Fourth, while in Britain, people say the fourth of July or July the fourth.
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