The differences between English-speaking and non-English-speaking countries may not seem that noticeable, but they can feel like two entirely different worlds. There are many differences between the US and UK that you should be aware of before traveling.
1. Greetings
In the United States, greetings often include a firm handshake, eye contact, and a warm smile. Hugs and kisses on the cheek may only be given to close friends and family. Handshakes are common in the UK, but tend to be less firm, and keeping a polite distance is more customary. Additionally, calling someone by their first name in the UK may require a closer relationship than in the US, where informality is often accepted more quickly.
2. Chip
Tipping is expected and customary in most services in the United States, including restaurants, bars, taxis, and hair salons. A standard tip is usually 15% to 20% of the bill. In the UK, tipping is less common and is often optional depending on the quality of service. Depending on your location, your bill may include a service charge, in which case no additional tip is required.
3. Drinking
The legal drinking age is 21, and drinking alcohol in public is generally prohibited in the United States. In the UK, the legal drinking age is 18 and drinking in public places, especially in parks and public transport, is more acceptable. Pubs and bars are also more prevalent in the UK than in the US.
4. Driving
In the United States, people drive on the right side of the road and use miles per hour as a unit of speed. In the UK, we drive on the left side of the road and use miles per hour as the unit of speed. The UK also has more roundabouts and fewer traffic lights than the US. Additionally, most cars in the United States are automatic, while most cars in the United Kingdom are manual.
5. Language
In the United States, people speak American English, which differs from British English in spelling, pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. For example, Americans say “collar,” “apartment,” “soccer,” and “trousers,” while British people say “collar,” “flat,” “football,” and “trousers.” Americans are also more likely to use slang and informal language than British people, who are more likely to use euphemisms.
6. Humor
In the United States, humor tends to be very simple and often involves sarcasm or making fun of oneself. Think stand-up comedies and sitcoms that tell sharp jokes and poke fun at everyday life.
In Britain, their humor has a different flavor. It’s all about wordplay, dry wit, and a love of satire. British comedy enjoys getting a little bit absurd and isn’t afraid to dive into the weird and awkward, especially in panel shows and dark comedy.
7. Food
In the United States, meals are often served in large portions and with a variety of options and seasonings. In the UK, food is often served in smaller portions, with a more limited traditional selection. Americans are also more likely to eat fast food, snacks and desserts than Brits, who prefer home-cooked meals, tea and biscuits.
8. Fashion
American fashion is more casual and relaxed, with people wearing jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, and baseball caps every day. In the UK, fashion is more formal and conservative, with people routinely wearing trousers, shirts, jackets, and hats. Climate, culture, and trends influence the differences between US and UK fashion. In the United States, fashion tends to be diverse and regionally influenced.
9. Politeness
Apology etiquette is different in the US and UK. In the United States, we often use “sorry” to express empathy and politeness, even in trivial situations. While politeness is valued in the UK, it is common to over-apologize for small things, and the phrase “sorry” is often used as a form of courtesy or to defuse an awkward situation. There may be times when
Americans also tend to be more direct and assertive than the British, who are more indirect and sensitive. For example, Americans say “I want” or “need,” while British people say “I want” or “I wonder.”
10. Personal space
Personal space is relatively large in the United States, where people tend to maintain at least an arm’s length distance from each other. Personal space is relatively small in the UK, and people tend to stand close to each other, especially in crowded places. Americans are also more likely to touch and hug each other than the reserved and reserved British people.
11. Cutlery skills
In the US, people usually hold the fork in their right hand and switch to their left hand when they need to use a knife, while in the UK they usually hold the fork in their left hand and the knife in their right hand. meal.
Another difference is that in America we tend to cut and eat one food at a time, whereas in the UK we usually cut several foods before eating. Also, Americans often place cutlery at the edge of the plate when not in use, while in the UK cutlery is often placed across the plate when not in use.
12. Holidays
In the United States, holidays are often celebrated with family, friends, and neighbors and include parties, parades, fireworks, and presents. In the UK, holidays are often celebrated with family, friends and colleagues and include food, drinks, cards and crackers. Americans also tend to celebrate more holidays than Brits, such as Thanksgiving, Halloween, and Independence Day.