What’s That When It’s At Home?

“What’s that when it’s at home?” is one of our favorite Britishisms. It’s slang, to be sure, and translates as “What does that mean?” George Bernard Shaw famously said, “England and America are two countries separated by a common language.” How true! Here are a few familiar words that have a slightly different twist across the pond. Try using these so you’re never lost in translation.

(The first word is the American version, the 2nd is British Isles.)

• PharmacyChemist
• (Emergency Services dialing) 911999
• E.R.A&E
• PenBiro
• French FriesChips
• Potato ChipsCrisps
• CookieBiscuit
• Cup of TeaCuppa
• ApartmentFlat
• Shopping CartTrolley
• ElevatorLift
• VacationHoliday
• A Friendly ChatChinwag or Natter
• Parking LotCarpark
• Zip CodePostal Code
• LineQueue
• SweaterJumper
• First FloorGround Floor
• Second FloorFirst Floor

Interested in more American to British translations? Just let us know!