British Culture, what do you really know about it?The most distinct aspect of British culture is that English is the native language, but there is a difference between British English and English that is spoken in the USA and in many other parts of the world. Naturally, if you wish to study or work in the UK you will have an easier time if you are able to speak and understand British English and know some basic British customs. If you find yourself more attracted to American culture then the obvious choice will be to focus your language learning activities on American English. Apart from the language differences, what do you really know about British culture? Do you know the differences between English culture and Irish culture? Lets look at some interesting aspects of what makes the British culture what it is.
What exactly is meant by the term "Great Britain"?"Great Britain" is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. People who come from England are English, those who come from Scotland are Scotish and people who are from Wales are Welsh.There have been many historical events over time which have led to these three very distinct definitions of what were once separate countries, that is before the name United Kingdom was introduced to refer to all three together. Although Ireland is a totally separate (and once totally independent) island, it too, is partly defined as being within the United Kingdom. The Republic of Ireland is completely independent while the 6 northern Irish counties have been the centre of terrorist fighting for decades. Here is a word of advice if you intend to visit these countries.. pay particular attention to avoid referring to either the Scots or the Welsh as English! Pay equal attention to avoid referring to the Irish as British! So what is the difference between Great Britain, and The United Kingdom?Well, believe it or not there is a very important difference, but as usual when discussing this topic you will need to be careful with your definitions.The United Kingdom is intended to mean both Great Britain, ie England, Scotland and Wales, and Northern Ireland. There is however no difference between the terms Great Britain and Britain. English cultureEnglish culture is wide and varied, with peeks into literary gems and the places that inspired them (from Beatrix Potter and Winnie the Pooh to Shakespeare), pub culture, English gardens, and delightful English food.I have to admit that I have a lot of Italian friends who laugh (or cringe) when I mention English food.. you see they are spoiled by their delicious mediterranean cuisine. However, I am always very quick to scold them for their mocking tones and to point out that there are indeed some equally delicious dishes offered up by traditional English recipes. I promise that we will mention Famous English Recipes at some point in this article but first lets start at the beginning.
Test Your English For Fun Here What do you know about British culture?Do you have a great story about this? Share it!
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