11 Things That Instantly Give Away You’re British in the US
Ever noticed how certain habits can spotlight where you’re from? Brits in the US, you’ve got some giveaways! Whether it’s how you say thank you or your reaction to the healthcare bills, let’s explore some fun signs that shout “I’m British!” when you’re stateside.
1. Saying “cheers” instead of thank you
When someone from the UK says “cheers” instead of “thank you,” it’s a dead giveaway. This British expression is a friendly, informal way of expressing gratitude, and it’s not just for toasting at the pub! It’s pretty common in the UK, but in the US, you might get a few puzzled looks. “Cheers” comes off as charming and unique, and it’s one of those things that instantly flags you as a Brit in America.
2. Asking for the bill instead of the check
If you’re dining out in the US and you ask for the “bill” instead of the “check,” it’s likely to raise an eyebrow or two. While both terms mean the same thing, “bill” is the go-to word in British English. This difference is a small but telling sign of where you’re from and can be a fun conversation starter about the subtle differences between American and British English.
3. Being surprised by tipping culture
For many Brits, the American tipping culture can be quite a shock. In the UK, tipping is less emphasized and often lower in percentage. In the US, however, it’s customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants. This cultural difference can catch British visitors off guard, making it a notable sign that someone is not from around here.
4. Talking about the weather constantly
In Britain, discussing the weather is almost a national sport. It’s a go-to conversation starter. If you find yourself constantly bringing up the weather in conversations, it might just give away your British roots. This habit stands out in the US, where small talk can often revolve around different topics.
5. Ordering tea instead of coffee
Tea is a staple in British culture, so naturally, when a Brit orders tea in a coffee-dominated country like the US, it stands out. While Americans do drink tea, the preference leans significantly towards coffee. A Brit asking for a nice cup of tea might just have the barista guessing their origin!
6. Using British slang like “mate”
The term “mate” is quintessentially British. It’s a friendly, casual way to refer to someone else, similar to “buddy” or “pal” in American English. When you drop a “Hey, mate” in conversation, it’s a clear hint of your British background, especially in the US where the term isn’t as commonly used in everyday speech.
7. Being overly polite to strangers
Brits are often known for their politeness—apologizing frequently, queuing orderly, and showing a general courtesy in public interactions. This level of politeness, while common in the UK, can sometimes be seen as excessive or unusual in the more direct American culture. Your manners might just reveal your British upbringing!
8. Confusion over portion sizes
In the US, everything is bigger, including meal portions. For Brits used to more modest sizes, American portions can be genuinely surprising. If your eyes widen at the size of your meal, it’s a funny little clue that you might be dining out American-style for the first time.
9. Expecting smaller prices than reality
The price tags in the US can be a bit of a shock for Brits, not only because of the number itself but also due to additional sales tax that gets added later. This difference in how prices are displayed and calculated can lead to some sticker shock for British visitors, making it another giveaway.
10. Walking more than locals expect
Brits tend to be pretty comfortable with walking — often more so than many Americans. If you find yourself walking lengths that your American counterparts would usually drive, it’s a tell-tale sign. This habit can make you stand out in the US, where car culture dominates.
11. Being shocked at healthcare costs
Coming from a country with a national health service, the cost of healthcare in the US can be particularly startling for Brits. The high expenses associated with medical care in America, including insurance, prescriptions, and treatments, can be one of the most shocking cultural differences for British visitors.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.