American words gaining currency in English

The place is a tourist hotel in the South. An American tourist asks the receptionist, “Where’s the elevator?” After some hesitation, the receptionist replies, “Sir, the lift is over there.” It is not clear whether she knew that ‘elevator’ is the American word for ‘lift’ in British English. Anyway, there was no misunderstanding. Many tourist hotels and private hospitals prefer the word elevator to lift. Maybe the American word is more fashionable than the British English word lift.

- By R. S. KARUNARATE [e-mail]

English is now spoken throughout the world as a native language, second language or foreign language. English was once the language of a small island off the coast of Europe. However, over the centuries it has become the main language of communication in many countries. With the expansion of the British Empire English spread across the world.

When a language spreads differences occur in the way it is used. For instance, there is British English, American English, Australian English, Singaporean English, Indian English and Sri Lankan English. However, the two major varieties of the language are the British English (BrE) and American English (AmE).

The differences between British English and American English fall into different categories. The main difference is found in spelling. When you go on a journey, you are a traveller (BrE), but a traveler in American English. When you fly, you travel in an aeroplane (BrE) or an airplane (AmE). You write a cheque (BrE) in order to pay for something. An American will write a check for the same purpose. You buy jewellery (BrE)) for a wedding. In American English jewellery is spelt as jewelry. Manoeuvre (BrE) is a difficult movement that requires skill and judgment to perform.