English-American Translations, or, Travel Can Be So Educational !
I’m listing a few items for translation between two variations from the English language. I mentioned the quote from (I believe it was attributed to George Bernard Shaw)- “England and America are two countries separated by the same language.” – which applies to the below.
If there are corrections or additions, please feel free to post your comments for same.
For the most part of the following list, I am indebted to Mr. Ken Cooke, one of the leaders of the British Expeditionary Force of Austin Seven Vehicles making a tour of Route 66 , which they have entitled “Five Baby Austins on the Mother Road.”
http://a7route66.typepad.com/
British =
American
Petrol =
Gasoline, or just plain Gas
Bonnet =
Hood
Hood =
Top (as on a convertible or open car)
Boot =
Trunk, or Luggage Compartment
Tyre =
Tire
Kerb =
Curb
Nearside =
The passenger’s or curb side of a car
Offside =
The driver’s or steering side of a car
Pannier =
Sidebags on a motorcycle
Dual Carriageway =
Divided Highway
Central Reservation =
Median Strip on a divided highway
Bookings =
Reservations, as at a motel
Dynamo =
Generator (old style)
Wonky =
Not operating properly
Sump =
Crank case
Motorway =
Expressway, Freeway, Interstate Highway, etc.
Pavement =
Sidewalk
Mud Guard =
Fender
Windscreen =
Windshield
Metalled =
Paved
Mobile =
Cell Phone
Amateur Wireless Operator in a private vehicle =
Mobile Amateur, or Ham Radio Operator
Roundabout =
Traffic Circle
Flyover =
Overpass
Spanner =
Wrench
Adjustable Spannner =
Monkey Wrench
Can you think of any additions or corrections ? Feel free to do so.