Rating: 
Summary: Solid Hit On A Moving Target
Review: The study of language and usage is a constantly evolving beast. Christopher Davies has taken a slice of usage and explained it to us with this book. Some common slang and colloquialisms from both countries are included.There are brief narratives about driving, schools, dining, etiquette, pronunciation and a host of other subjects. These are followed by lists of equivalent US/UK terms. There is also an extensive lexicon, along with idioms and expressions. These are listed American to British and British to American, just like a true translation dictionary. There are also numerous cautions about the use of certain terms which may be interpreted as vulgar depending on the country they are used in. Some of the "translations" are a bit humorous; "pissed" is considered vulgar in both countries, in the US it means "furious," In the UK it means "drunk." I guess I'd rather be pissed in the UK! Davies also explains mechanical differences in plumbing, electricity, telephone usage, currency, banking and postal service. These sections would be of greater interest to travelers than readers. Although it is difficult to label any dictionary in any language as absolutely complete and current, this one gets very close to the mark. Even Webster's is revised every few years! This is a good place to start matriculating the usages of the opposite country, if you plan travel, correspondence, reading or just watching TV. You may find hidden humor in works you have already read. If not, I'm sure you'll find some amusement just perusing the various sections of Davies book. At the very least, you'll have no excuse if you drop a clanger and blot your copybook on you next London holiday.
Rating:
Summary: Wonderful reference for American or British
Review: This is a wonderful reference for someone on either side of the pond. Christopher Davies goes very in depth, and gives some helpful advice for those stumped by the not-so-subtle differences in what is supposed to be the same language. The only downside to this reference is that it's near obvious that Davies learned his American in the South. There are a few phrases brought forward that I never heard until I'd move to Florida, and have never heard anywhere outside the South. Despite this, I'd recommend this book for those curious about linguistic differences, or someone considering relocating from one side of the pond to the other. To the Author: You've done wonderful research, however there is one GLARING mistake in this book (unless you were trying to make it "family friendly". To flip someone the bird is actually to give them the middle finger, not to make a V sign. V sign is the
peace sign - a definite counter-gesture to the middle finger.
Thank you for all your hours of hard work. If you're intending on putting forth another edition, I'd be happy to make some contributions.
Rating:
Summary: Wonderful reference for American or British
Review: This is a wonderful reference for someone on either side of the pond. Christopher Davies goes very in depth, and gives some helpful advice for those stumped by the not-so-subtle differences in what is supposed to be the same language. The only downside to this reference is that it's near obvious that Davies learned his American in the South. There are a few phrases brought forward that I never heard until I'd move to Florida, and have never heard anywhere outside the South. Despite this, I'd recommend this book for those curious about linguistic differences, or someone considering relocating from one side of the pond to the other. To the Author: You've done wonderful research, however there is one GLARING mistake in this book (unless you were trying to make it "family friendly". To flip someone the bird is actually to give them the middle finger, not to make a V sign. V sign is the
peace sign - a definite counter-gesture to the middle finger.
Thank you for all your hours of hard work. If you're intending on putting forth another edition, I'd be happy to make some contributions.
Rating: 
Summary: Good, but don't rely on it completely
Review: This is sheer enjoyment for readers, writers, editors, and crossword puzzle enthusiasts. Christopher Davies has written a delightful dictionary that is comprised of:
* Two cross language lexicons
. UK-- Stone the crows! US -- Holy cow!
. US -- pumps (high heels); UK -- court shoes
* Cartoons that depict the US or UK interpretations in a humorous manner.
* Term classifications these explanations are lists of words and what they mean to each culture. "If an American asks you to crack a window, he wants you to open it slightly."
* Other variations which includes Canadian, Australian, South African terms and their American equivalent. A chip wagon is a van on the side of the road from which snacks are sold. However many Americans use colloquialisms such as lunch truck and roach coach, which are not listed in this dictionary.
* Words that have different meanings such as S.T.D. (US Sexually Transmitted Diseases and UK Subscriber Truck Dialling.)
* Idioms and expressions such as (UK) feel peckish (US) have the munchies.
* What not to say. "Bugger" is not polite in England; the UK phrase "give me a tinkle" should be replaced with "give me a call." The chapters headings are: What happened to English in America; Tips for the Tourist; Practical Information; For the Technically Minded; Institutions and Services; Differences in Customs and Etiquette; Driving Terminology; Pronunciation; Spelling; Sundry Terms; What not to Say; Idioms and Expressions; UK-US Lexicon; US - UK Lexicon; Explanations; Notes on Symbols; Some Other Variations of English; Miscellaneous Information. I love dictionaries. At 194 pages, Davies provides entertainment and information. It is a five star jaunt into words and meanings. Victoria Tarrani
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