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British vs. American English

American and British Words for Clothes

Due to warmer climates, Americans have the luxury of wearing T-shirts as often as possible. Flip flops are also common in America, especially if you head on to the beach. The Brits, however, have a different style and are not a fan of T-shirts or flip-flops. They tend to take fashion seriously and often spend ample time on their makeovers. Whatever the occasion or lack of it, the British always make sure that they dress their best.

In this article, we’ll look at some common clothing words that change between British and American English. By learning these differences, you’ll know exactly what someone means when they talk about their outfit!

American and British Words for Clothes

American and British Words for ClothesPin
American and British Words for Clothes – Created by 7ESL

Bootlace, Shoelace —–<>—– Shoestring

Clothes peg —–<>—– Clothespin

Dressing Gown —–<>—– Bathrobe

Dungarees —–<>—– Overalls

Nappy —–<>—– Diaper

Underwear, Knickers —–<>—– Underwear, Panties

Plimsolls, Gym Shoes —–<>—– Gym Shoes

Polo Neck —–<>—– Turtle Neck

Pyjamas —–<>—– Pajamas

Swimming Costume —–<>—– Bathing Suit

Trainers —–<>—– Sneakers

Trousers —–<>—– Pants

Waistcoat —–<>—– Vest

Wellington —–<>—– Boots, Wellies

Rubber —–<>—– Boot

Zip —–<>—– Zipper

British vs. American Vocabulary Words | Video

American and British Words for Clothes | Picture

BrE AmE CLOTHESPin

A2 Knowledge Check · 5 questions

American And British Words For Clothes Practice Quiz (A2-B1)

1 / 5
Q1

Question 1: What does the word 'trainers' mean in British English?

Question 1 options
'Trainers' is the British English word for sports shoes used for running or exercise, called 'sneakers' in American English. 'Boots' are heavy shoes that cover the ankle. 'Sandals' are open shoes. 'Slippers' are worn indoors.
Q2

Question 2: Which word is closest in meaning to 'dungarees' (British English)?

Question 2 options
'Overalls' is the American English equivalent of 'dungarees' — both describe a one-piece garment with a bib and straps over the shoulders. 'Pyjamas' are sleepwear. 'Tights' cover the legs. 'Raincoat' is an outer coat for wet weather.
Q3

Question 3: A: 'It's raining outside!' B: 'You should put on your ___ before you go out — your feet will get wet!' (British English)

Question 3 options
'Wellies' (short for Wellingtons) are tall rubber boots worn in wet weather in British English. 'Flip flops' are open summer shoes. 'Plimsolls' are light canvas shoes. 'Slippers' are indoor shoes.
Q4

Question 4: After her shower, she put on her ___ and walked to the kitchen to make breakfast. (American English)

Question 4 options
'Bathrobe' is the most natural and precise word here — it is the American English word for a loose robe worn after bathing. 'Dressing gown' is the British equivalent. 'Overalls' are work clothes. 'Swimming costume' is worn in water.
Q5

Question 5: In American English, a 'vest' refers to the same garment as a 'waistcoat' in British English — a sleeveless jacket worn over a shirt.

Question 5 options
True. In American English, 'vest' means a sleeveless garment worn over a shirt, which is exactly what British English speakers call a 'waistcoat.' In British English, a 'vest' means an undershirt.

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