毕业设计论文--Differences between British English and American English.doc

Differences between British English and American English Abstract: British English and American English are the two most important variants of the English language. They influence each other and are mutually complementary. Due to the historical, political, cultural and environmental factors, the two language variations have some differences in various aspects. These varieties may be regional or national. To understand the differences between American English and British English and to grasp their rules are very important .This paper will describe the differences in the following aspects: pronunciation, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and usage. Key words: British English, American English language, differences, varieties. I . Introduction Nowadays, English is popular around the world, which has experienced great changes during a long time of American colonization, English has been the language of the United States. From then on, English language were grouped into two major kinds, British English and American English, which have their own characteristics. As time the time goes, America begins take part in international affairs. Especially, America plays a important role in international stage from Second World War to now. Recent 20 years, American English develops quickly in politics, economy, culture, education and so on. So American English develops rapidly, and is discussed and studied in world. In modern society, some people think learning American English is fashionable, but the concept of differences must not be taken too far, because British English and American will be two major varieties of one language, not two different languages, with the development of modern science, technology, mass media, the differences between these two nations are becoming smaller. In practice, the tendency is towards better understanding between the people of the two countries. In order to help the English learners better understand the differences between British English an