Key Takeaways
1. Language differences reveal deep cultural divides between England and America
To the extent that it is possible to generalize about them, I'll be doing just that. Anyone who would find out the truth has to start somewhere.
Subtle linguistic variations between British and American English often mask deeper cultural differences. Words like "quite," "proper," and "clever" carry distinct connotations in each country, reflecting divergent values and social norms. For instance, in England, "quite" often serves as a qualifier meaning "fairly," while in America it's an emphasizer meaning "very."
These language differences extend to:
- Vocabulary: lift vs. elevator, biscuit vs. cookie
- Spelling: colour vs. color, theatre vs. theater
- Idioms: "Bob's your uncle" vs. "piece of cake"
- Pronunciation: schedule, privacy, tomato
Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication and avoiding misunderstandings.
2. Class distinctions shape English society more than American
Because in England, unlike in America, partner isn't a code word for "same-sex partner."
England's class system persists despite efforts to downplay its significance. Social markers like accent, education, and occupation continue to influence interactions and opportunities in ways that may baffle Americans. The English middle class, for example, is more stable and self-conscious than its American counterpart.
Key class indicators in England:
- Accent and vocabulary
- School attended (public vs. private)
- Cultural references and tastes
- Leisure activities and hobbies
While America has its own socioeconomic divides, the myth of classlessness and emphasis on social mobility create a different dynamic. Americans tend to define themselves more by income and profession than by inherited status.
3. English reserve contrasts with American openness in social interactions
Americans are far more likely to broadcast their backgrounds and personal history. It would be gauche to be seen to compete, to be seen to care too much about winning, or to ask—or answer—direct questions about one's origins.
Social norms differ significantly between England and America when it comes to personal disclosure and emotional expression. The English tendency toward understatement and self-deprecation contrasts sharply with American enthusiasm and directness. This impacts everything from casual conversations to dating rituals.
Cultural differences in social interactions:
- Small talk topics (weather vs. personal life)
- Compliment giving and receiving
- Expressing emotions in public
- Approach to networking and making friends
These differences can lead to misunderstandings, with Americans perceiving the English as cold or aloof, while the English may find Americans overly familiar or brash.
4. Food and drink customs reflect broader cultural values
The English like to vacation in their own country, and they do visit historic houses and places like Stonehenge and Stratford-upon-Avon. But the twee quaintness of much of it is old hat to them.
Culinary traditions reveal cultural priorities. The English pub, with its social rituals and community focus, contrasts with American fast food culture. Similarly, attitudes toward alcohol consumption differ, with the English more likely to integrate drinking into daily life.
Food and drink cultural markers:
- Full English breakfast vs. American pancakes and bacon
- Tea rituals vs. coffee on-the-go
- Pub culture vs. sports bars
- Attitudes toward public intoxication
These differences extend to portion sizes, meal times, and the social significance of dining out. Food preferences also reflect historical influences, such as rationing during World War II in England.
5. Attitudes toward work and leisure differ significantly
Two weeks—one bloody fortnight—is the amount of time the English are appalled to hear that Americans "only" have for holiday (vacation) each year.
Work-life balance priorities diverge between England and America. The English tend to place higher value on leisure time, with longer paid vacations and a more relaxed attitude toward productivity. Americans, by contrast, often pride themselves on their work ethic and long hours.
Contrasting work cultures:
- Vacation time expectations
- Attitudes toward overtime and "face time"
- Career advancement strategies
- Work-related small talk and socializing
These differences reflect broader cultural values, with Americans more likely to derive identity from their jobs, while the English may prioritize other aspects of life.
6. Humor and politeness take distinct forms in each country
The English are far more fluent at swearing than Americans. They are more likely to link colorful language with having a sense of humor than with coarseness or vulgarity.
Humor styles diverge significantly, with English wit often relying on irony, self-deprecation, and understatement, while American humor tends to be more direct and exuberant. Politeness norms also differ, with the English favoring indirect communication and Americans valuing straightforwardness.
Humor and politeness contrasts:
- Sarcasm and irony usage
- Comfort with self-mockery
- Approaches to compliments and criticism
- Profanity and taboo topics
These differences can lead to misunderstandings, with each culture potentially misinterpreting the other's intentions or level of sincerity.
7. Patriotism and national identity manifest differently
Americans' flag-waving tendencies baffle the English, who generally don't go in for that particular flavor of nationalism.
Expressions of national pride vary markedly between England and America. Americans tend to be more overtly patriotic, with flag displays and pledges of allegiance commonplace. The English, while proud of their heritage, often express nationalism more subtly or ironically.
National identity markers:
- Attitudes toward flag display
- National anthem practices
- Historical education focus
- Sporting event behaviors
These differences reflect distinct historical experiences and national mythologies, with American identity often tied to ideals of freedom and opportunity, while English identity may center more on tradition and cultural heritage.
8. Money talk taboos persist but are evolving post-recession
Since the recession, Americans and the English have relaxed the money-talk taboo. Saving and economizing have become viable topics of conversation.
Financial discussions remain sensitive in both cultures, but economic pressures have forced some openness. Traditionally, the English avoided money talk due to class sensitivities, while Americans' reticence stemmed from ideals of self-reliance and privacy.
Changing attitudes toward money discussions:
- Comfort with salary comparisons
- Openness about financial struggles
- Attitudes toward debt and saving
- Generational differences in money talk
The recession has prompted more frank discussions about financial realities, though cultural discomfort persists, especially around individual wealth or poverty.
9. Holiday traditions highlight cultural quirks and shared heritage
Pantomime is practically unknown in America. This doesn't mean that American stars can't get in on the action—but it does mean that those who do are usually brought in mainly for their novelty value.
Christmas celebrations reveal cultural distinctions while also highlighting shared traditions. The English embrace quirky customs like pantomime theater, while Americans focus more on commercial aspects. Both cultures, however, draw heavily on Victorian-era ideals of family gatherings and generosity.
Contrasting holiday traditions:
- Boxing Day vs. Black Friday
- Christmas pudding vs. pumpkin pie
- Pantomime vs. Santa Claus parades
- Queen's Christmas message vs. TV specials
These differences reflect broader cultural values, historical influences, and the ongoing exchange of traditions between the two countries.
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FAQ
1. What’s "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore about?
- Explores British and American English: The book examines the differences between British and American English, using specific words and phrases as entry points into broader cultural contrasts.
- Cultural Analysis Through Language: Moore uses language as a lens to explore deeper cultural, social, and historical differences between England and the United States.
- Personal and Humorous Approach: Drawing on her own experiences as an American living in England, Moore provides anecdotes, humor, and observations to illustrate her points.
- Word-by-Word Structure: Each chapter focuses on a single word or phrase, unpacking its meaning, usage, and the cultural attitudes it reveals.
2. Why should I read "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore?
- Understand Cross-Cultural Nuances: The book is invaluable for anyone interested in the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways language reflects and shapes national identity.
- Practical for Travelers and Expats: It serves as a guide for Americans in the UK, Brits in the US, or anyone navigating transatlantic relationships, helping avoid misunderstandings.
- Entertaining and Insightful: Moore’s witty, accessible style makes linguistic and cultural analysis engaging and relatable.
- Broader Relevance: Even if you’re not a language buff, the book offers insights into class, humor, politeness, and social norms in both countries.
3. What are the key takeaways from "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore?
- Language Reflects Culture: Words and phrases often have different meanings and connotations, revealing underlying cultural values and attitudes.
- Misunderstandings Are Common: Even with a shared language, Americans and Brits frequently misinterpret each other due to subtle linguistic differences.
- Identity and Belonging: Language is a marker of identity, and adopting or resisting certain words can signal belonging or foreignness.
- Celebrate Differences: Rather than flattening out distinctions, Moore encourages readers to appreciate and learn from the quirks of both Englishes.
4. How does Erin Moore structure "That’s Not English" and what is her approach?
- Word-Focused Chapters: Each chapter centers on a single word or phrase (e.g., "quite," "sorry," "cheers"), using it as a springboard for cultural exploration.
- Anecdotal and Analytical: Moore blends personal stories, historical context, and linguistic analysis to make her points.
- Comparative Method: She consistently contrasts British and American usage, highlighting not just vocabulary but also attitudes and behaviors.
- Accessible and Humorous Tone: The book is written in a conversational, often self-deprecating style, making complex ideas easy to grasp.
5. What are some of the most important words or concepts discussed in "That’s Not English"?
- "Quite": Explores how "quite" means "very" in American English but "rather" or "fairly" in British English, leading to misunderstandings.
- "Sorry": Examines the overuse and nuanced meanings of "sorry" in the UK, often as a tool of politeness or passive aggression.
- "Cheers": Looks at how "cheers" is used as a casual thank you or goodbye in the UK, but is often misapplied by Americans.
- "Middle Class": Delves into the different meanings and social implications of "middle class" in both countries, touching on class mobility and self-perception.
6. How does "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore explain the cultural significance of words like "quite," "sorry," and "cheers"?
- "Quite": In the UK, it’s a form of understatement; in the US, it’s an intensifier, reflecting national tendencies toward subtlety versus enthusiasm.
- "Sorry": In England, "sorry" is multifunctional—used for apologies, smoothing over awkwardness, or even as a passive-aggressive rebuke; in America, it’s more direct and sincere.
- "Cheers": The British use "cheers" in everyday transactions as a casual thank you or farewell, while Americans often use it only for toasts, sometimes awkwardly adopting the British usage.
- Cultural Reflection: These words illustrate broader differences in politeness, emotional expression, and social interaction between the two cultures.
7. What does Erin Moore say about class and social mobility in "That’s Not English"?
- Class in England: Class is more stable and less tied to income, with deep-rooted markers like accent, education, and taste; the middle class is often mocked but forms the backbone of society.
- Class in America: The middle class is more aspirational and economically defined, with greater anxiety about social mobility and a strong belief in self-made success.
- Self-Deprecation vs. Self-Promotion: The English use self-deprecation to signal class and avoid appearing boastful, while Americans are more comfortable with self-promotion and sharing personal struggles.
- Class Markers in Language: Words like "middle class," "posh," and even "toilet" carry different social weights and taboos in each country.
8. How does "That’s Not English" address the topic of politeness and social interaction in British and American culture?
- Negative vs. Positive Politeness: The English favor "negative politeness" (not imposing, keeping distance), while Americans prefer "positive politeness" (seeking connection, giving compliments).
- Use of "Sorry": The English use "sorry" to avoid confrontation and maintain social harmony, often in situations where Americans would not apologize.
- Compliments and Small Talk: Americans are more likely to give compliments and engage in friendly small talk with strangers, which can seem insincere or intrusive to Brits.
- Underlying Social Rules: These differences in politeness reflect deeper cultural values about individuality, hierarchy, and community.
9. What are some examples of words that have different meanings or connotations in British and American English, according to Erin Moore?
- "Quite": Means "very" in the US, "fairly" in the UK.
- "Middle Class": Economic category in the US, social/cultural category in the UK.
- "Toilet": Neutral in the UK, considered vulgar or awkward in the US.
- "Scrappy": Positive (determined) in the US, negative (disorganized) in the UK.
- "Partner": In the UK, can refer to any significant other; in the US, often implies a same-sex relationship or business partner.
10. How does "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore explore the impact of history and media on language differences?
- Historical Divergence: The book traces how American and British English evolved separately after the colonial period, influenced by social, political, and technological changes.
- Media Influence: American media exports have familiarized Brits with Americanisms, while British slang and expressions are increasingly adopted by Americans, sometimes awkwardly.
- Noah Webster’s Reforms: The American drive for linguistic independence (e.g., spelling reforms) is contrasted with British resistance to change.
- Cross-Pollination: Despite globalization, both countries maintain strong linguistic identities, with media both bridging and highlighting differences.
11. What advice or insights does Erin Moore offer for Americans and Brits trying to communicate or fit in across the Atlantic?
- Read Between the Lines: Especially in the UK, where understatement and indirectness are common, it’s important to interpret what’s not being said.
- Embrace Differences: Rather than imitating the other side, Moore suggests appreciating and learning from the quirks of each culture.
- Be Aware of Taboo Words: Some words are innocuous in one country but offensive or awkward in the other (e.g., "fanny," "toilet," "bloody").
- Stay Curious and Humble: Recognize that even with a shared language, misunderstandings are inevitable, and a sense of humor goes a long way.
12. What are the best quotes from "That’s Not English" by Erin Moore and what do they mean?
- "The idea that England and America are two countries separated by a common language... trivializes the problem." — Highlights that language differences are just the surface of deeper cultural divides.
- "An American who moves to England is like Wile E. Coyote running over a cliff into thin air." — Illustrates the delayed realization of cultural disorientation for expats.
- "Differences in language contribute to individual and cultural identity. They are interesting, valuable, and fun in themselves, but they are also the blazes on the trail." — Emphasizes the importance of linguistic differences in shaping who we are.
- "If you ignore or fail to understand them, you might as well be speaking a different language." — Warns that overlooking these nuances can lead to feeling lost, even when speaking "the same" language.
- "This is a love letter to two countries that owe each other more than they would like to admit." — Captures the book’s affectionate, balanced perspective on both cultures.
Review Summary
That's Not English explores linguistic and cultural differences between Britain and America through 31 word-focused chapters. Readers found it witty, insightful, and entertaining, praising Moore's balanced perspective as an American living in England. Some felt it lacked depth or relied on generalizations, while others appreciated its lighthearted approach to cross-cultural understanding. The book's examination of language nuances and societal implications resonated with many, though opinions varied on its overall impact and relevance.
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