COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AMERICAN AND BRITISH ENGLISH VOCABULARY

This study examines the historical development of British and American English vocabulary and explores semantic differences in identical lexical units across the two varieties. Although both forms share a common origin, they evolved independently due to migration, cultural contact, social change, and regional influences. These historical and social factors have led to divergence in meaning, connotation, and usage of words that appear identical in both varieties. The research highlights how vocabulary differences, including semantic shifts and specialized meanings, affect spoken and written communication. By analyzing examples from everyday language, professional contexts, and educational settings, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding these variations for effective communication, translation, and language learning.

Keywords: British English, American English, vocabulary development, semantic differences, identical lexical units, historical linguistics, language variation, lexical evolution, intercultural communication, English language history