English for Spanish speakers · part 22 of 22
British vs American vocabulary
English is not one target. British and American English differ in spelling, pronunciation, and — most visibly — everyday vocabulary. Neither is "more correct"; what matters is being consistent and knowing that the same object has two common names.
| British | American |
|---|---|
| lift | elevator |
| flat | apartment |
| holiday | vacation |
| lorry | truck |
| biscuit | cookie |
| petrol | gas |
| rubbish | trash |
| trousers | pants |
Which variety to teach depends on your students' goals — American English dominates film, technology, and much of the internet; British English is common in Europe, in exams like IELTS, and across the Commonwealth. Pick the variety that fits where the class is headed and keep it consistent — while making sure students can recognise both, because they will meet both constantly.