Living in the UK, you get used to hearing a mix of accents and phrases from all over the world, and it’s one of the things that makes Britain such an interesting place to live. But let’s be honest—there are a few Americanisms that have made their way across the pond that don’t seem as fitting here. Let’s take a look.
“Can I get a…”
It might be common in the US to walk into a café and ask, “Can I get a latte?” but this phrase often feels a bit too self-service for Brits. In the UK, the preferred way to ask for something is, “Could I have…?” or simply, “I’ll have…” It’s less about getting something yourself and more about politely requesting a service.
“You guys”
While “you guys” is a staple in American English, used to address any group of people regardless of gender, it doesn’t sit well with everyone in the UK. In Britain, addressing a group with “you guys” can feel overly familiar or, worse, unintentionally exclude those who don’t identify as “guys.”
“I could care less”
This one is a real head-scratcher for Brits, as the phrase “I could care less” implies that you actually do care somewhat, which is the opposite of what most people mean. The British version, “I couldn’t care less,” makes far more sense—it’s a complete dismissal, indicating that your level of concern couldn’t possibly be any lower.
“Period”
Ending a statement with a definitive “Period” is a power move in American conversations, meant to shut down any further debate. However, in the UK, this phrase doesn’t carry the same weight, as Brits typically finish their points without needing to add an extra word for emphasis.
“Take a rain check”
This phrase, commonly used in the US to politely decline an invitation while leaving the door open for a future meeting, doesn’t translate well in Britain. In the UK, it’s rarely raining too much to carry on with plans (we’re used to it), and the idea of needing a specific “rain check” feels unnecessary.
“Gotten”
Americans love using “gotten” as the past participle of “get,” but to British ears, it sounds old-fashioned and clunky, because in the UK, “got” is the preferred past participle, and it feels more straightforward and natural. Hearing “gotten” in conversation can make Brits feel like they’ve been transported back a few centuries.
“Dude”
“Dude” is a versatile word in American English, used to refer to just about anyone, but it doesn’t quite have the same charm in the UK. Calling someone “dude” can come across as trying a bit too hard to be laid-back or cool, which isn’t always the vibe Brits are going for.
“Real quick”
When an American says they’ll do something “real quick,” it often feels like they’re downplaying the time or effort involved. In the UK, Brits are more likely to say “quickly” or “in a moment” to convey a sense of urgency without sounding dismissive.
“Living the dream”
“Living the dream” is often used sarcastically in the US to suggest that life is far from perfect, but in the UK, it’s seen as a bit too cheesy or insincere because Brits are known for their dry humour, and this phrase doesn’t quite hit the mark. It can feel overly optimistic or, worse, disingenuous.
“Awesome”
A staple in American vocabulary, “awesome” is used to describe anything from a good cup of coffee to a breathtaking view, but Brits tend to reserve such high praise for truly extraordinary things. Using “awesome” for everyday situations can seem excessive.
“Touch base”
In the American workplace, “touch base” is a common phrase used to suggest catching up or checking in with someone. But in the UK, it can feel a bit too business-like or impersonal, as Brits prefer to say “have a chat” or “catch up,” which feels more relaxed.
“My bad”
When something goes wrong, U.S. residents often say, “My bad,” as a quick way to admit fault, and while it’s a handy phrase, people in the UK often find it too informal and even a bit dismissive. In the UK, people are more likely to say, “I’m sorry,” or “That was my mistake”.
“Got it”
The phrase “Got it” is a common American way to acknowledge understanding, but in the UK, it can sometimes sound a bit abrupt. Brits tend to use phrases like “I see,” “Understood,” or “Right” to show that they’re following along, as these alternatives feel a bit more conversational.
“It is what it is”
Used to express acceptance of a situation, “it is what it is” is often met with eye rolls in the UK; Brits generally prefer a more nuanced approach to dealing with life’s challenges. Saying “It is what it is” can come across as dismissive or unhelpful, as it suggests a resignation to fate rather than a willingness to find a solution.
“Bangs”
In the U.S., “bangs” refers to what Brits call a “fringe,” but the American term can sound a bit strange in the UK. For one, the word “bangs” has other connotations that make it less than ideal for describing a hairstyle, plus, “fringe” is a perfectly good word that Brits are quite attached to.
“Knock on wood”
Saying “knock on wood” is a way to ward off bad luck after making a hopeful statement; however, in the UK, this phrase isn’t as widely used. Brits are more likely to say “touch wood” if they say anything at all, and the American version can feel a bit too literal.
“Winning”
Popularised by American celebrities, “winning” is often used to describe a successful or fortunate situation, yet in the UK, this phrase can sound a bit too boastful or self-congratulatory. Brits generally prefer to play down their successes rather than shout about them.
“Fill out a form”
In the US, you “fill out” a form, but in the UK, you’re more likely to “fill in” a form, and while this might seem like a small difference, it’s one of those things that can instantly mark someone as an outsider. The American phrase can sound a bit clunky to British ears, as “fill in” feels more complete and logical.
“On the same page”
“On the same page” is a phrase Americans often use to indicate that everyone is in agreement or has the same understanding. While it’s clear enough, in the UK, this phrase can feel a bit too literal and business-like, where people might say “in agreement,” “aligned,” or “on the same wavelength” instead.
