Do I need to be concerned about using American or British English?

The answer to this question depends on your perspective, I suppose. The two varieties of English have more in common than not, and they are mutually intelligible for the most part. However, there are differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, and usage. Awareness is probably more important than concern.

I think that many people world-wide who are speakers of English use some sort of blend of varieties (also could be Australian, Indian, or Canadian English, amongst others). This is great! In spoken form and informal communication there is no large issue of understanding that cannot be correct with a quick question to clarify.

In writing, it is more complicated. Which spelling do I use? Which conventions do I use? Most style guides for publications will tell you what the preference is. However, if you get to choose, just be consistent. Set your spell checker to either British or American and clean up any discrepancies. To be honest, in academic writing, I, as an American, often have difficulty deciphering the nationality of the writer without tell-tale spelling clues.

My advice is to relax. Use them both. Appreciate the variety!

See some of these excellent resources for more information.

• USA and England: Separated by a Common Language from the Good Grammar Good Style Pages
• British-American Dictionary
• United Kingdom English for the American Novice
• Differences between English and American Spelling from OWLL at Massey University
•