Americanisms and British English

In an era of global connections it may feel like an anachronism to worry about differences between American and other versions of English.

On some levels it may. But overall, it’s something you should be aware of.

For a start, if you are writing for English-speakers outside of North America, your words and your meaning will be easier to read, better understood and unambiguous if you follow local use.

Moreover, if, like me, you come from a British English tradition – for the purpose of this discussion that includes Australia and New Zealand among other places – you’ll not only feel more at home writing in your own voice, your writing will be more natural as a result.

And that matters hugely online, where a writer’s voice takes on far more importance. At the same time, you’ll find words flow more fluently when you are comfortable with your English.

Another reason not to force yourself into using American English is you may occasionally get it slightly wrong. At worse, American English speakers will spot you as a phony. More likely, your prose will be misunderstood.

Remember your goal as a writer is to articulate ideas as clearly and efficiently as possible. Your natural voice is the best tool for the job.