Brits Reveal Surprising American Traditions They Secretly Envy

What Brits begrudgingly admit America does better.

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• July 12, 2024

When it comes to the UK and the US, it’s not just the Atlantic Ocean that divides them. These two countries might as well be in different galaxies, given the vast differences in their cultures, customs, and even their daily habits.

It's no secret that the Brits and Americans have long debated over spellings, customs, and even the way they write the date. These quirks often leave both parties slightly miffed, scratching their heads, or even gnashing their teeth in some extreme cases (which happens more often than you think).

One curious Redditor decided to stir the pot by asking: "Are there any 'UK vs US' differences where you feel America gets it right?" The responses were a blend of revelations that offered a fresh perspective on these contrasting cultures.

The initiator of the argument bravely kicked things off by declaring they preferred the American pronunciation of the word "lieutenant." To them, it aligned more logically with the actual spelling.

Another user, fresh off the boat from the US, lambasted the UK’s house-buying process and saluted Americans for making things more straightforward. Virtual nods of agreement went round.

Then came a salute to American optimism. Their "can-do" attitude was described as a refreshing breeze, quite a contrast to the often understated British demeanor.

And how can we forget the all-mighty mouth-watering American pizza sold by the slice at ridiculously cheap prices? That was basically the highlight because what’s life without good old, affordable pizza? Not worth living. That’s what it is.

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Let's dig into the details

OP lists certain differences between the US and the UK.

One example is the different pronunciations of some words.

Check out some interesting comments below:

“As a construction worker, the ability to put a lien on the house/property of a person that hasn't paid out for your work.”

“I think our (probably realistic a lot of the time) negativity holds a lot of working class people back.”

“It's essentially impossible to be more than well off in the UK purely through receiving a salary.”

“The fact that you insure the car, not the driver, and that petrol is ridiculously cheap.”

“The way they write the date, the US 100% does not get that correct.”

“I’ve noticed one key cultural difference that manifests itself in the workplace and society. Brits simply do not challenge authority like Americans do.”

“Most Brits couldn’t tell you who their pension is even with.”

“Separation of church and state. The state should be fully secular.”

“I’m not saying Brits are unfriendly, I’m just saying Americans have more of a genuine friendliness.”

So, while many might raise an eyebrow at some Americanisms, there are definitely areas where they seem to have hit the nail on the head.

Whether it's their optimism, pizza prowess, or well-equipped national parks, sometimes it’s worth tipping our hats across the pond.

We’d live to get your thoughts on this post. Feel free to join the conversation in the comments.

Jesse