Characteristics of British People Living in America: Language, Culture, and Tipping Habits
Living in a foreign country, especially one as vast and culturally diverse as the United States, presents unique challenges and opportunities for British residents. While many find these experiences transformative, others may feel a sense of cultural dissonance on their journey of assimilation. This article delves into the linguistic, cultural, and behavioral aspects of British people living in America, exploring how these factors shape their interactions with the local culture.
Language Differences and Assimilation
The language barriers between Britain and America are often underestimated. While American and British English share numerous similarities, they are distinct geolects or language variants. This difference can lead to significant misunderstandings. British English tends to be altogether separate from American English in more than just spoken accent; there are numerous lexical and grammatical differences that can create communication challenges.
In the 1960s, a wave of intellectuals and professionals from Britain, dubbed the Brain Drain, moved to the United States. These expatriates often adapted to American speech patterns and developed a transatlantic accent, which was prominent in 1960s television shows produced by Gerry Anderson. Characters from shows like Thunderbirds, Supercar Fireball XL5, and Stingray often exemplify this style of speech.
While British people used to do this as a way to blend in, linguists refer to it as L1/L2 interference. As nearby languages have similar structures and vocabularies, this interference can persist even long after a person has settled in America.
Accommodating these linguistic differences can make a significant difference in the ease of daily life. By adjusting to American speech rhythms and using American vocabulary, British people living in the US can avoid the pitfalls of being misunderstood. However, it is not necessary to lose one’s British accent entirely. In fact, many American celebrities, such as John Oliver, who speaks with a Brummie accent, demonstrate that it is possible to strongly assert one’s identity while still being understood.
Cultural Assimilation and Tipping Habits
British people living in or visiting America frequently experience cultural and behavioral adjustments that are common among expatriates. While British people in America may initially stand out, over time they tend to adopt American customs and norms. For instance, tipping is a crucial aspect of the American service culture, something that may initially be unfamiliar to British visitors.
It is often believed that Europeans are poor tippers due to a misunderstanding of the concept of a tip in the cultural context of the US. Europeans, including Brits, typically view tipping as an optional courtesy and are not aware that in the US, tips are a significant part of the revenue for service staff. Without this knowledge, British people often over-tip, making up for what they perceive as not doing the right thing. This can lead to awkward situations and even waste of money for the expatriate.
Understanding the American tipping system is essential, as it directly impacts the compensation of service workers. Service businesses in the US often do not pay their staff a living wage, relying on tips to make ends meet. Therefore, tips are not just a courtesy but a necessary income source for many. Once this is explained, many British expatriates understand the importance of tipping adequately.
For instance, if a British person visiting an American restaurant, they might tip 20% on the total bill, which could be significantly more than what someone in the US would tip for the same service. Similarly, American establishments may see Brits as generous and perhaps a bit quirky, which can be seen as endearing or even amusing.
Through this understanding, British people living in America can navigate the local culture more effectively, ensuring they are seen as respectful and considerate neighbors, business partners, and friends.
Conclusion
Living and working in America as a Brit brings a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Mastering the nuances of American language and cultural norms can significantly improve the quality of life and professional relationships. By embracing the local culture and understanding the intricacies of tipping, British expatriates can successfully integrate and contribute to the American community.
Whether it is adopting American speech patterns, finding the right balance in tipping, or simply enjoying the rich cultural tapestry of the US, the journey of living in America is filled with learning, growth, and connection. Understanding these aspects of British life in America can make the experience more meaningful and less of a cultural shock.