Page 178 - (DK) Help Your Kids with Language Arts
P. 178
176 SPELLING
More British and SEE ALSO
142–143 Prefixes and suffixes
146–147 Words ending in -e or -y
American spellings consonant words
154–155 Single and double
160–161 Silent letters
SPELLING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BRITISH AND AMERICAN 162–163 Compound words
ENGLISH CAN SOMETIMES AFFECT A WORD’S PRONUNCIATION.
Small differences between British and American spellings do not
usually change the meaning of a word. However, British English
may use two words to indicate two meanings, whereas American
English uses the same word for both meanings.
Different sounds or words British English American English
A minor change in the spelling of a word aeroplane airplane
can affect its sound, even if the meaning
is the same. Occasionally, British and aluminium aluminum
American English use different words disorientated disoriented
to mean the same thing. pavement sidewalk
sledge sleigh or sled
Different meanings
Sometimes, British English uses two The Oxford English Dictionary is widely thought
words that sound the same but with to be the authority on the English language and
different spellings to indicate different
meanings. American English uses the includes both British and American spellings.
same word for both meanings.
In British English, In British English, this means to restrain.
this refers to the kerb curb In American English, curb is used for
edge of a sidewalk. both meanings.
In British English, In British English, this refers to a tale or work
this is a level within storey story of fiction. In American English, story is used
a building. for both meanings.
In British English, In British English, this means to conduct
this means to enquire or inquire an investigation. In American English,
request information. inquire is used for both meanings.
In British English, In British English, this refers to a device
this refers to a unit metre meter used for measuring. In American English,
of length. meter is used for both meanings.
In British English, In British English, this refers to becoming
this is the rubber tyre tire weary. In American English, tire is used
part of a wheel. for both meanings.
