Part 4: Differences in English Words between U.S. vs. U.K.

This is Part 4 of Several blogs about Words with different meanings in the U.S. versus U.K. These were compiled by Dictionary dot com, so if there are errors, I am simply sharing.  - Regardless, if you watch BBC/British television these will come in handy! Today's blog will look at 6 more of them, from sidewalk to washcloth . Read on!

sidewalk

In the US, the word sidewalk refers to a paved path that people can walk along the side of a road. In the UK, the words pavement or footpath are more likely to be used instead.

sneakers

Most sources claim that the word sneakers or sneaks referring to shoes emerged in the 1800s to refer to noiseless shoes with rubber soles. These words aren’t common in the UK, and Brits are more likely to use the word trainers to refer to casual footwear.

sweatpants

The word pants often refers to underwear rather than outerwear in the UK. Likely for this reason, the word sweatpants is used a lot more often in the US.

thumbtack

While the word thumbtack isn’t totally alien to the UK, the term drawing pin is the more common name for the tiny fastener.

trash and garbage

In the US, the words trash and garbage are commonly used to refer to unwanted junk people throw away. In the UK, other words such as rubbish or litter are more commonly used. Along the same line, Brits are more likely to chuck something into a dustbin rather than a trash can.

washcloth

The word washcloth is an Americanism that combines the words wash and cloth. In the UK, the terms face cloth or flannel are much more likely to be used to describe towels or cloths used to wash the face and body.