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How can I avoid using Americanisms when writing in Australian English?

To minimize Americanisms in Australian English writing, use British/Australian spelling, familiarize with local vocabulary, and adhere to Australian grammar rules. Consult Australian English resources for correct usage, read local works, and have your text reviewed by Australian English speakers. This ensures your writing reflects Australian language standards accurately.

To avoid using Americanisms in your writing in Australian English, you can follow these practical steps:

  1. Understand the Differences in Spelling:
  • Use British/Australian spelling conventions such as ‘colour’ instead of ‘color’, ‘realise’ instead of ‘realize’, and ‘organise’ instead of ‘organize'[2][8][9].
  • Remember that words ending in ‘-ise’ in Australian English often end in ‘-ize’ in American English. For example, ‘analyse’ vs. ‘analyze'[10].
  1. Be Aware of Vocabulary Differences:
  • Use Australian terms such as ‘petrol’ instead of ‘gasoline’, ‘biscuit’ instead of ‘cookie’, and ‘boot’ instead of ‘trunk'[2][4][6].
  • Familiarize yourself with uniquely Australian words and phrases, and prefer them over American equivalents. For example, use ‘footpath’ instead of ‘sidewalk'[4][6].
  1. Adopt Australian Grammar and Punctuation Rules:
  • Avoid the serial comma (also known as the Oxford comma) which is commonly used in American English but not in Australian English[10].
  • Use single quotation marks for direct quotations and double quotation marks for a quote within a quote, which is the opposite of the American style[10].
  1. Pronunciation and Writing Style:
  • Be mindful of the Australian pronunciation and try to reflect this style in your writing, especially if it affects the choice of words or expressions[2].
  • Avoid American phrasing and idiomatic expressions that are not commonly used in Australia[6][12].
  1. Use Australian English Resources:
  • Refer to Australian dictionaries and style guides to check for correct usage and spelling[8][9].
  • Read Australian literature and publications to immerse yourself in the local usage and stylistic preferences[4][6].
  1. Editing and Proofreading:
  • Have your text reviewed by someone proficient in Australian English to catch any Americanisms you might have missed[10].
  • Use software or tools set to Australian English to help identify American spellings and grammatical preferences[9][10].

By consistently applying these guidelines, you can effectively minimize the use of Americanisms in your writing and ensure that your text adheres to Australian English standards.

Citations:


[1] https://www.casita.com/blog/main-differences-between-aussies-and-brits-englishes
[2] https://www.speakmoreclearly.com/english-pronunciation-tips/american-english-accent-vs-australian-english-accent/
[3] https://ielts.idp.com/indonesia/about/news-and-articles/article-australian-vs-british-vs-american-english/en-gb
[4] https://blog.e2language.com/australian-english-vs-american-english-vs-british-english/
[5] https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/let-every-new-word-bloom-20110812-1iqtx.html
[6] https://www.babbel.com/en/magazine/australians-love-american-words
[7] https://www.abc.net.au/education/interesting-words-and-americanisms-in-our-language/13953302
[8] https://www.agencymavericks.com/australian-english-vs-british-english-vs-american-english/
[9] https://www.abc.net.au/education/learn-english/australian-vs-american-spelling/11244196
[10] https://www.eliteediting.com.au/avoiding-americanisms-when-using-australianbritish-english/
[11] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy-bd5AC-Ms
[12] https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/8274467/clear-as-math-what-counts-as-proper-australian-english/
[13] https://www.thinkswap.com/au/vce/english-language/year-12/americanisms-and-their-effect-australian-english
[14] https://www.smh.com.au/national/australian-english-isn-t-being-taken-over-by-americanisms-but-it-is-changing-20210729-p58e2f.html
[15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oouPqmLbYro
[16] https://quadrant.org.au/magazine/2019/03/the-serious-decline-of-the-common-language/
[17] https://www.reddit.com/r/australia/comments/198fm7q/americans_cant_write_australian_dialogue/
[18] https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/2613124
[19] https://thekicker.substack.com/p/i-fought-americanisms-and-americanisms