English Dialects: Everything You Need To Know

English is crucial for global communication as it’s the official language in 67 countries worldwide. That’s why you’ve been taking classes in a Santa Monica, CA, language academy: you want to follow the latest trends.

However, English in South Africa differs from that in Canada. Cultural influences vary and have impacted the language in their unique ways. So, how many English dialects are there actually? Keep reading to find out!

How many types of English are there?

Most people are aware of two English accents: British and North American. But, the truth is, there are much more varieties of English, boasting their peculiarities.

SOME SCHOLARS CLAIM THAT THERE ARE OVER 160 DIFFERENT TYPES OF ENGLISH, BUT TODAY WE’RE GOING TO DISCUSS THE SEVEN MOST WIDELY USED ONES.

BRITISH ENGLISH

According to Oxford Dictionaries, this term refers to English used in the United Kingdom. However, more narrowly, it denotes Received Pronunciation, the most prestigious language of the royal family.

Its most noticeable characteristic is non-rhoticity: the consonant “r” isn’t pronounced if not followed by a vowel. Instead, the preceding vowel is lengthened, as in words: army, world, work, etc.

NORTH AMERICAN ENGLISH

Broadly speaking, North American English is spoken in the United States and Canada. And to understand its features, let’s compare it with British English.

The primary differences concern spelling, pronunciation, and vocabulary.

American English tends to omit the letter U, as in words: color, favorite, honor, mold, etc. The British spelling of the same words is: colour, favourite, honour, and mould.

Verbs that end in “-ise” in British English end in “-ize” in American:

realise (British English) vs. realize (American English)

NB: Canadian English follows British English spelling rules.

When it comes to pronunciation, the main difference is the consonant “r.” While British speakers won’t pronounce it in words like word, pork, arm, etc., North American speakers will.

Also, British people pronounce a clear “t” sound, while North Americans pronounce something between “t” and “d” sounds. This is particularly noticeable in the word “water.”

There are many differences in the vocabulary too. Britons drive lorries, but Americans have trucks. The former live in flats and play football, and the latter own apartments and play soccer, etc.

SCOTTISH ENGLISH

This version is spoken in Scotland and has distinctive pronunciation and colorful vocabulary.

For example, “ae” is a prevalent vowel combination. Let’s look at “cannot”: the “t” sound  is swallowed, and the “o” sound becomes “ae,” creating “cannae.”

Glottal stops (obstruction of the airway) also distinguish Scottish English: “glottal” would become “glo'al.”

Here are some Scottish words and phrases:

• balloon (an annoying person),
• bucket ( a trash can),
• What dreich weather! (What bad weather!), etc.

IRISH ENGLISH

Two regions speak Irish English: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in the United Kingdom. The most prominent characteristic of the Irish dialect is the pronunciation of the “th” cluster. It’s pronounced as “t” or “d.”

Also, there are some unique vocabulary and phrases, such as:

• shebeen (pub),
• gob (mouth, offensive),
• I’m grand (I’m fine), etc.

AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH

This variety's characteristics include long vowel sounds and vivid slang.

Check out these words:

• servo (a gas station),
• mozzie (mosquito),
• bloke (man, guy),
• barbie (barbecue), etc.

New Zealand English

Often referred to as the Kiwi Accent, the New Zealand accent is famous for its neutrality. As is the case with other varieties, there are some unique words and phrases:

• hardout ( very as in “It’s hardout hot today!” means “It’s very hot today!”),
• sweet as (no problem/alright),
• jandals (flip flops), etc.

SOUTH AFRICAN ENGLISH

One of the most noteworthy features is that the letter “a” is pronounced “eh.” Many South African English speakers would refer to their country as “South Efrica” instead of “South Africa.”

Another exciting characteristic is the meaning of the phrase “just now.” It often refers to something that will be done “in a little while.”

Where in Santa Monica, CA, can I find a dependable language academy?

If you’re looking for tips and tricks to mastering English or are unsure what resources to rely on, a teacher’s help can be vital. So, come to the College of English Language near Third Street Promenade and hone your skills with top native instructors in Santa Monica.

Call us today, choose a course that suits your best and let’s perfect English together!