Mind the Gap 2: Between British & American Language & Culture
About this ebook
In this book, I’ve included a variety of words and phrases that will help Americans who love Britain enjoy it even more. Even if you have never visited the UK, I hope you enjoy British films, TV, and books more than ever after discovering a bit of British culture and humor hidden in odd words and phrases.
If you are seeking a more dictionary type of book, you’ll find that too. I’ve included such practical words and phrases covering foods, clothes, travel, and even the size of British paper you will need for your printer. So, you’ll be equipped to purchase aubergines, order a gammon steak or a bap, understand an old reference to a blower, locate an Aga, and what to offer when asked if you have a biro. You won’t want to see an identity parade and you’ll know what a Londoner means by “innit.” And importantly, I hope you will avoid repeating some highly insulting phrases when someone is out of their tree.
About the author
I was born in Islington, a borough of London to English parents. My dad, Arthur Sutton, grew up in Wandsworth and Battersea. My mum, Gladys New, and her family are from East Finchley.
My native language is an old version of Londoners’ English spoken by my parents who came of age in the 1920s and 1930s and absorbed by me during the 20 years I lived at home.
I came to America as a boy and learned American English in New Jersey. For years I was confused about spelling and which words and phrases to use for this and that. When teachers told me to look words up in the dictionary, they didn’t realize my parents’ dictionary was British.
Perhaps naturally, I wanted to become an English teacher. Alas, my guidance counselor said there were no jobs so try Spanish. Eventually, I made my way to psychology but remain fascinated and entertained by the English language.
