As you step into the intermediate or even advanced levels of learning English, it’s essential to be aware of the various types of the English language. This awareness can help you enhance your skills and adapt to different English-speaking regions. But what are these types? Let’s explore them.
Intermezzo: A Fact About English
English has been the most widely spoken language in the world for centuries. Understanding English is essential in professional settings, academic environments, and traveling.
However, the English you know might differ from what people speak in other regions, and that’s no surprise. Historical, geographical, and social factors shape many varieties of English. Each type may have unique dialects or cultural influences that distinguish it from your familiar English.
Varieties of English
So, let’s dive into the detailed varieties of English, learn how they came to be, and explore examples.
1. British English (BrE)
British English is the oldest form of the language, evolving from Old English spoken around the 5th century CE. It later developed into Middle and then Modern English.
British English has distinct characteristics that set it apart from other varieties, especially American English, such as:
- Using “-our” instead of “-or”
Example: “She asked for my favour in choosing the colour for the new painting, but I was more concerned with her behaviour.”
- Using “-re” instead of “-er”
Example: “We walked to the centre of the town, and then headed to the theatre for the evening show.”
- Non-Rhoticity Dialect
British English often drops the “r” sound at the end of words or syllables, such as “compuhtah” (computer) or “bettah” (better).
To familiarize yourself with British English, you can consume these media:
- Books: Harry Potter series or The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
- Movies: The Theory of Everything
- TV Shows: Peaky Blinders
- Podcast: BBC Radio
2. American English (AmE)
American English emerged from British English, particularly following the British colonization of North America in the early 17th century. This makes American English the earliest major variety to branch off from British English.
The difference between American and British English includes spelling, vocabulary, and sentence structure. For example:
- Using -ize, not -ise (BrE)
Example: “I need to organize my schedule better because I realize now how important it is to recognize and prioritize my tasks.”
- Dropped Letters
Example: “Traveler” (AmE) vs “Traveller” (BrE), “Canceled” (AmE) vs “Cancelled” (BrE)
- Different Vocabulary
Example: “Truck” (AmE) vs “Lorry” (BrE), “Cookie” (AmE) vs “Biscuit” (BrE)
American English is the most widely used variety globally, as well as the best to learn for beginners, thanks to its influence in various sectors, such as global media, technology, and education. However, British English remains highly influential and is the second most widely used type of English.
- Books: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Movies: The Avengers
- TV Shows: Friends
- Podcast: How I Built This
3. Australian English (AusE)
Just like American English, Australian English also originated from British English, emerging after British colonization in 1788. Over time, it developed distinct characteristics influenced by Indigenous Australian languages and the region’s cultural isolation.
How to spot Australian English? Here’s some tips:
- Resemblance to British Pronunciation
Example: Words like “dance” are pronounced as “dɑːns”, and “grass” as “ɡrɑːs”
- Diphthongs:
Example: “Moyt” to say “mate” and “dye” to say “day”.
- Slang and Abbreviations:
Example: “Arvo” (afternoon), “brekkie” (breakfast), “servo” (service station), “thongs” (flip-flops).
If you want to learn more Australian English, you can explore the following:
- Books: The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
- Movies: Crocodile Dundee
- TV Shows: Neighbours
- Podcast: The Aussie English Podcast
Beyond these three types of English, there are many more to explore, such as Singlish (Singaporean English), Canadian English, Caribbean English, and others. Learning about these varieties can enhance your communication skills and cultural sensitivity, helping you build stronger connections with your conversation partners.
If you’re eager to learn more about the different types of English language, we at Fun English Course are here to help. With our carefully tailored programs and experienced mentors, you’ll master English with ease—no matter the accent or dialect. Don’t wait any longer—contact us and enroll today!