Abstract: Today, American English is the result of history. In America colonial times, people of all countries came across the oceans to the United States. Many different nationalities lived together. Their history, culture and traditions are integrated into one and permeated throughout the whole country, bringing a variety of languages to the United States. After the United States declared independence, Webster believes since the Americans had been independent, language and culture should also remain independent. After the 20th century, with the continuously developing of economic globalization, accompanied by the growth of American hard power, American English’s influence also grew. The main features of American English reflect in the tone and voice, dialect, spelling, vocabulary and the exist of Black English.

Key words: American English; characteristics; British English

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. The Development of American English-1

2.1 The American English during Colonial Period-1

2.2 The American English after the Founding of U.S.A-2

2.3 The American English after 20th Century-3

3. The Major Characteristics of American English Compared with British English-3

3.1 The Pronunciation and Dialect of American English-3

3.2 The Spelling Rules of American English-6

3.3 The Grammar of American English-8

3.4 The Vocabulary of American English-9

3.5 Black English Vernacular-17

4. Conclusion-18

References-18

Acknowledgments-20