I didn't realize when I came to Spain that in addition to working on my Spanish I would also be learning more English.
While Americans and British people both speak English, there are a number of differences in vocabulary--some of which may cause unfortunate misunderstandings.
Classical differences would be:
British: rubber American: eraser
British: teddy American: teddy bear
British: trousers American: pants
British: pants American: underwear
British: trainers American: tennis shoes
Today, I learned a new ENGLISH word.
My second graders are learning about clothes. So the teacher was having students describe what other students were wearing. I heard the teacher say that one of the boys was wearing a "jumper" which caused me to do a double-take.
In the United States, a "jumper" is another word for a dress. It typically has no sleeves and is worn over another shirt. Usually, it's kind of frumpy.
Obviously, this boy was not wearing an American jumper. So I tried to figure out what the teacher was pointing at--his sweater or his polo. After she pointed out that a number of students were wearing jumpers, I realized that a jumper was a sweater.
Next, I was confronted with the use of the word "jersey."
In my experience, a jersey is worn as part of a sports uniform.
Today, I learned that in England it can refer to a sweater or another top (made of cotton or wool) that doesn't have an opening at the front.
Picture of the Day:
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| In Elche (Elx in Valencian), city of palm trees! |
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