British and American English in IELTS

British or American English in IELTS, which is better?

Some people are confused about whether to use British or American English in the IELTS test. The answer is that both types are fine to use and also the IELTS listening test has various accents from English speaking countries around the world.

You do not get a higher band score in the speaking section for using a British accent either. Your accent does not matter as long as the examiner can clearly understand you. If you prefer to use American English spelling or vocabulary in the writing section, then stick to that when doing the exam, don’t suddenly switch to using British English spelling or vocabulary and vice versa.

What are the differences between American & British English?

There are a few differences between the two but overall the language is very similar. The main differences are spelling, vocabulary and certain grammar structures. For example, the present perfect is used more often in British English. And of course, pronunciation is quite different.

For instance:

British English:  “I’ve lost my keys. Have you seen them?”
American English: ” I lost my keys. Did you see them?”

Another example is the past participle of “Got” ..In America, it is “Gotten”

British English:  ” Your English has got much better”
American English: ” Your English has gotten much better”

The word ” Take” is often used in American English, In British English the word “Have” is more common, See the examples below.

Another difference is “Have you got…? “ and ” Do you have….? “ In British English we would say ” Have you got a car? “ But in America you would probably hear the phrase “Do you have a car?”

Below are some examples of Spelling and Vocabulary differences.

Any Questions?… leave a comment below.