A Brief History and Glossary of the American Language It was once said that Britain and the U.S. were nations separated by a common language. It is difficult for many Americans to appreciate that they might now be speaking German had the Great Referendum gone the other way. In post-revolutionary times English and German were both widely spoken and a single official language was thought to be needed. English won the Referendum, but only just. These days Americans generally consider their language to be racy and to-the-point. But the fact is that it tends towards pomposity and not for nothing has it been said that the American language never uses a single word where two will suffice! Ever since they were liberated from under the heel of the English, the Americans have gradually been distancing themselves from the real English language and have - in no small measure thanks to a certain Mr Webster who had a penchant for writing anti-English dictionaries - grown this language of their own. Breaking News! Declaration of Independence revoked! American English At this (precise) moment in time Right now Immediately Right now, at once Automobile Car Guys, fellers People -or (e.g. color) -our -ize -ise z (pron. zee) z (pron. zed) One time Once Two times Twice -in' (at the end of a gerund) -ing Hooker Pro, whore, prostitute Closet Cupboard Oh, my gaawwwwd! (usually used by Hollywood-type women) Gosh! Wow! Gosh! Sidewalk Pavement Elevator Lift Movies Pictures, films, flicks (the greatest) of all time (the greatest) ever Apartment Flat