Blimey, I’m Knackered!: An American's Survival Guide to British English

by Marshall Hall, Mark Cowie (Illustrator)

Brit Speak for Yanks!Back in 1887, Oscar Wilde wrote, “We have really everything in common with America nowadays, except, of course, language.” One would think, in a world homogenized by technology and social media, that differences between British English and American English would gradually disappear. Ask any recent traveler, though, and you’ll learn that plenty of linguistic idiosyncrasies persist, and new ones emerge all the time. Folks on both sides of the pond may be in closer touch than ever before, but we are still, as George Bernard Shaw purportedly noted, “two nations divided by a common language.” Blimey, I’m Knackered is the perfect companion for anyone desiring to bridge the gap between US and UK English or who simply enjoys the evolution of language and culture. American scholar and longtime UK resident Marshall Hall has organized his insightful definitions and explanations of British idioms, colloquialisms, abbreviations, acronyms, and slang into nineteen entertaining and revealing chapters covering everything from transportation and food to politics, education, and wardrobe. Making the book truly comprehensive are sections on pejoratives and “naughty bits.” Hall’s often amusing explanations make the book an engaging read for language lovers and travelers alike. Charming pen-and-ink illustrations by Mark Cowie add whimsy and humor to this entertaining, useful, and unique compendium. No American need ever be befuddled again!

350 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2021

Reviews

[Christine Bass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific book. So many words that were frankly bewildering to me are wonderfully explained.

I wouldn't definitely recommend this book to anyone that wants to visit the area, or just want to better enjoy books or films.