American and British vocabulary

There are differences between British and American English - but there are also regional differences in British and American dialects. If you spot something that you think is strange, or if you have an alternative for any of the words, please let us know!

In the list below, the first expression is always British English.

Houses
Washing up liquid = Dish soap

Hoover = Vacuum cleaner

Washing powder = Laundry soap

Clothes peg = Clothes pin

Fridge = Fridge / Refrigerator

Living room / lounge = Living room / Den

Chest of drawers = Bureau

Wardrobe = Closet

Armchair = Easy chair

Larder / pantry = Pantry

Oven = Oven / stove

Cars
Mirror = Rear view mirror

Wing mirror = Side mirror

Indicators = Blinkers

Bonnet = Hood

Boot = Trunk

Windscreen = Windshield

Put your foot down = Step on the gas
(To drive fast)

Motor / wheels = Wheels
(Informal expressions for your car)