von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | British vs. American English, Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
In British English, these () are called brackets.
Example: The meeting (which was delayed) will start soon.
In American English, they’re called parentheses.
Example: The meeting (which was delayed) will start soon.
Now, if you add [] or {}, things get trickier:
- [] are called square brackets in both British and American English.
- {} are called braces in American English, and curly brackets in British English.
It’s a small difference, but important if you want to sound clear!
von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
Advice (noun): The helpful tips you give your friend.
Example: “Thanks for your advice—I’ll wear the blue dress!”
Advise (verb): What you do when you give advice.
Example: “I advise you to wear the blue dress; it matches your eyes!”
Mixing them up is a common mistake, but now you know the difference.
von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
English spelling can be tricky, but “definitely” is one word that needs to be spelt right! It’s NOT “definately“ or “defanitely“.
Here’s a tip: Think of the word “finite” (which means limited). Add “de” at the beginning and “ly” at the end—definitely.
Easy, right? Keep practising!
von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
By: Focus on the deadline.
Example: Finish the report by Friday. (Do it before Friday.)
Until: Includes all the time up to the deadline.
Example: You have until Friday to finish the report. (You can work on it up to Friday.)
Mixing them up isn’t a disaster, but it might confuse your colleagues or boss! 😊
von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
In German, “Chef” means your boss at work. But in English, “chef” is only used for a professional cook.
For your boss, say “boss” or “manager” in English.
Examples:
- German: Mein Chef ist nett.
- English: My boss is nice.
- English: The chef at this restaurant is amazing!
von Christine Burgmer | Jan. 22, 2025 | Tips and Tricks, Vocabulary variations |
Remember, “Easter” doesn’t have an “N” at the end. It’s not “Eastern“!
Also, the Friday before Easter is called “Good Friday”, not “Holy Friday” like in some languages.
Example:
- Correct: Easter is in spring.
- Incorrect:
Eastern is in spring.
Keep it simple—no “N”!