Can I Learn American English From 'English in Use' Books?

Based on your question, it seems that you are eager to learn American English but have found that the 'English in Use' books primarily focus on British English (BrE). This can indeed be a challenge if your goal is to learn American English (AmE). There are multiple factors to consider, including accent, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, usage, and idioms. Let's dive into each of these areas to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what you can achieve from these books and what steps you might take to master American English.

The Differences Between American and British English

While there are some notable differences between American and British English, these differences can be broadly categorized into five main areas:

Accent and Speech Patterns

The most visible difference between AmE and BrE is in pronunciation. American English has a fewer number of vowel phonemes than British English, with notable mergers like the father-bother and cot-caught mergers. Additionally, there are distinct vowel shifts and the yod dropping phenomenon in American English, where the sound [j] is often omitted in certain words (e.g., news is pronounced /nuz/ instead of /nju?z/ in American English).

Spelling Differences

Spelling is another significant area where there are numerous differences between American and British English. Many words use different spellings, such as color vs. colour, center vs. centre, and theater vs. theatre. Most of these differences can be mastered by studying word lists and paying careful attention to the various patterns.

Vocabulary Differences

There are also differences in vocabulary, with many American and British English speakers using different words for the same thing. For example, football is called soccer in the United States. While you can study this using numerous online articles and resources, achieving true mastery would require a deep understanding of the cultural context and usage, which may be beyond the scope of a beginner's knowledge.

Grammar Differences

Grammatical differences between AmE and BrE are relatively minor and can often be learned through consistent study and practice. However, the primary challenge lies in the subtleties of usage and idioms, which are crucial for native-like fluency.

Usage and Idioms

These are the most nuanced aspects of language that are often not explicitly taught in books. If you are a keen and subtle observer, you can pick up many of the differences in literary style through extensive reading. However, you will miss out on the more important differences that arise in everyday conversation.

Strategies for Learning American English

Learning English, or any foreign language, is a multi-step process that involves reading, writing, listening, and speaking. While you can certainly use 'English in Use' books and similar resources, it is essential to supplement your studies with practical experience:

Listen to Native Speakers: You should listen to as much American English as possible. This includes watching TV, listening to radio, and movies, as well as using audio and video resources like CDs and videos. Conversation Practice: Find native speakers and engage in conversations. This will help you get used to the natural flow of the language and pick up on subtle nuances. Writing Practice: Write lessons, letters, and thoughts to improve your writing skills and to reinforce what you have learned. Consistent Practice: The key to mastering any language is consistent practice. Dedicate time every day to practicing and improving your skills.

In summary, while 'English in Use' books and similar resources can be valuable tools, they may not provide everything you need to fully learn American English. A combination of reading, listening, speaking, and practical experience is essential. With dedication and practice, you can achieve a high level of proficiency in AmE.