10.2
Spelling
Interesting
Most students usually identify the word “programme” as British and “program” as American. It is much more complicated. The word “programme” is of course British English, but when they speak about COMPUTER programs, programming languages, British English uses the word “program”, as in American English.
Interesting
The word “semester” is neither British nor American English. It is not English. It is French. The right term for the Czech word “semestr” is “term”, i.e. winter term, summer term.
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30. Spelling differences between British and American English that could be confusing.
Fig. 30. Spelling differences between British and American English that could be confusing.
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31. Spelling differences between British and American English that could be confusing.
Fig. 31. Spelling differences between British and American English that could be confusing.
Note
Note that the rule for practice/se and licence/se is exactly opposite.
10.2.1
Pronunciation and Accents
  • Another interesting aspect is the accent. There are many accents within British and American English. A native Londoner would probably sound to you a lot different compared to another native speaker for example from Newcastle, not far from Scotland (Cheryl Cole is from Newcastle).
  • It is hard to speak like a native speaker but you should realise that losing your accent is something unique that could impress other people.
  • However, what can (should) be improved, is your pronunciation, the way you articulate and intonate. Practice with me!
Video 3. Pronunciation – practice (ə) sound.
10.2.2
Double vs Single “l”
Double “l” or single “l” problem is often a question of region. British and American English differ a lot in this matter.
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32. Double vs single “l”.
Fig. 32. Double vs single “l”.