Translations for US Aliens

British Invasion. Image courtesy of That Dandy Classic Music Hour.

U.S. ... us ... I hate to break it to you but this is the simplest of discrepancies in language you will experience in your travels abroad. It was truly unbelievable how lost you could feel, even in countries that speak English as a first language. This is because so many words and cultural components differ from those of the United States.

But, have no fear. Most countries' populations amazingly enough speak at least some, if not fluent English. Also, since American culture partially dominates the entertainment and economic industry, most Europeans understand what you are trying to get across and know enough of the cultural differences to communicate when they realize you are American.

Word Translations

(in no particular order)

Queue: a line to wait in for you turn or entrance

Pants: underware

Take Away: take-out

Jacket Potato: baked potato

Washington: Washington D.C.

Cheers: thanks, sincerely, congratulations, cheers when clinking glasses

Chips: fries

Car Park: parking lot

Hospital: the hospital, Europeans use it as a name and do not include a preposition beforehand

Petrol: gas for a car

Lads: bros

Crumpet: mix between an english muffin and a pancake

Pudding: dessert

Fee or payment for a club: cover, cover charge

Top Up: add money to an account; cell phone plan or Tube card account

Oyster Card: name of London Underground and bus system ticket card

Journey: all travels; includes flight, car, walking, train, Tube, bus

Tube: is both the unofficial name for the London Underground train system (The Tube), and the name for a specific under ground train (a Tube)

The Underground: the train system that runs througout London.

Train: could be an Underground train or any other type of train, pay attention to context

Toilet: bathroom

Lift: elevator

Trolley: kart or shopping kart

Plug Socket: power outlet

Biscuit: cookie

Jelly: jello

Jam: jelly

Mate: friend

Curry: Indian food

Fortnight: two weeks ago

Flat: apartment

Accommodation: living space

Uni or University: university or American college

College: comparable to the last two years of American high school in age range (16-18), it is a separate school where you focus in on more specific school subjects

Post Code: Zip Code