Divided by a Common Language: A British/American Dictionary PLUS

by Christopher Davies

DIVIDED BY A COMMON LANGUAGE is a comprehensive reference book about the differences between British English and American English. It covers pronunciation and spelling differences along with a... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0966094573
• ISBN13: 9780966094572
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: Mayflower Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

Good Yen, but Yang Required for Balance...

Excellent book, much of it in the style of a dictionary. Offers specific phrases to use as alternatives in both American and British cultures. Written by a Brit who now lives in Florida, so it's nice to see the still-British-influenced language he uses in his narrations. And it's written for use in both cultures, not just geared to travelers from Britain traveling in America or vice-versa. I do think this book is perfect in combination with the book "Brit-think Ameri-think" by Jane Walmsley who is (as opposed to Davies) American born but now living in Britain. In her book, she offers the necessary complement to "Divided" by giving her readers a less technical, more anecdotal insight into the attitudes, habits and background of the two cultures (and she's humorous as well). On its own, this book is very technically good.

Humor is a gift of language--

This is sheer enjoyment for readers, writers, editors, and crossword puzzle enthusiasts.Christopher Davies has written a delightful dictionary that is comprised of:* Two cross language lexicons. UK-- Stone the crows! US -- Holy cow! . US -- pumps (high heels); UK -- court shoes* Cartoons that depict the US or UK interpretations in a humorous manner.* Term classifications these explanations are lists of words and what they mean to each culture. "If an American asks you to crack a window, he wants you to open it slightly."* Other variations which includes Canadian, Australian, South African terms and their American equivalent. A chip wagon is a van on the side of the road from which snacks are sold. However many Americans use colloquialisms such as lunch truck and roach coach, which are not listed in this dictionary.* Words that have different meanings such as S.T.D. (US Sexually Transmitted Diseases and UK Subscriber Truck Dialling.)* Idioms and expressions such as (UK) feel peckish (US) have the munchies.* What not to say. "Bugger" is not polite in England; the UK phrase "give me a tinkle" should be replaced with "give me a call."The chapters headings are: What happened to English in America; Tips for the Tourist; Practical Information; For the Technically Minded; Institutions and Services; Differences in Customs and Etiquette; Driving Terminology; Pronunciation; Spelling; Sundry Terms; What not to Say; Idioms and Expressions; UK-US Lexicon; US - UK Lexicon; Explanations; Notes on Symbols; Some Other Variations of English; Miscellaneous Information.I love dictionaries. At 194 pages, Davies provides entertainment and information. It is a five star jaunt into words and meanings.Victoria Tarrani

The only true British-American dictionary

"Divided by a Common Language" is really the only true British-American dictionary I have come across. It gives direct comparisons of words and expressions, which is what one wants in a reference book. I have recently been teaching in the UK, and I can vouch that both the British and American terms are current. Davies has made this book more than just a dictionary however. There is a plethora of information here. Tidbits of information on various topics, such as the reason the British drive on the left, and the origin of the dollar sign, make this book good reading. Recommended reading for all travelers.

Great for Travelers

I recently came back from a trip to Australia. Not only was this book invaluable for everyday communication, but the section on Australian slang saved me from being totally lost when talking to Aussies. A must for any traveler to a country where British English is spoken. The comprehensive list of word comparisons make this a serious reference book, but the expressions and idioms are what make this book fun to read! Explanations on acronyms such as ZIP code and Amtrak, as well as unraveling the mystery as to why Americans drive on the right and Brits on the left make this a great book for resolving disputes. My only criticism is that I would have liked to have seen a few more of the humorous illustrations which help to lighten up the book.

Great book for travellers.

Taking his cue from George Bernard Shaw's, "England and America are two countries divided by a common language", Christopher Davies, of Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia and the U.S., has penned, "Divided By A Common Language" with the subtitle, "A British/American Dictionary Plus, published by Mayflower Press. Divided, there's that word again, into sixteen sections interspersed with humorous illustrations, Davies takes us an historical, as well as practical, journey, even pointing out the differences between American and British plumbing! In the vocabulary portions we find the U.S. word "diaper" translated into "nappy", (familiar to watchers of British TV, ie, telly, shows).The U.S. slang "shut up" becomes "belt up" in the U.K. The examples are numerous and sometimes funny, sometimes surprising. In the restaurant section I was intrigued with "spotted dick" which is a suet or sponge pudding with currants. Also "bubble & squeak" which is a fried mashed potatoes and veggies patty. The handsome red, white and blue cover sports the two countries' flags, tempting you to sample its contents. Do, you won't be disappointed. A must-read for transatlantic travellers plus those who just love words and their derivations. Davies has appeared on many television shows and his book has been showcased on nationwide PBS channels and featured in the British publication Union Jack. Buy it--you'll like it! I await, with anticipation, the sequel.Iris Forrest, Editor Ageless Press, Sarasota, Florida