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Four Thought

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Matthew Engel: An Invasion of Americanisms

Duration:
15 minutes
First broadcast:
Wednesday 13 July 2011

Matthew Engel charts the growth of Americanisms in the English language and explains why, as a former Washington correspondent, he thinks this is now a serious problem.

Four Thought is a series of talks which combine thought provoking ideas and engaging storytelling.

Recorded live in front of an audience at the RSA in London, speakers take to the stage to air their latest thinking on the trends, ideas, interests and passions that affect our culture and society.

Producer: Sheila Cook.

  • Why do some Americanisms irritate people?

    Why do some Americanisms irritate people?

    British people are used to the stream of Americanisms entering the language. But some are worse than others, argues Matthew Engel.

    Read Matthew Engel's article for the BBC news website

  • Americanisms: 50 of your most noted examples

    Americanisms: 50 of your most noted examples

    Our recent piece on Americanisms entering the language in the UK prompted thousands of you to get un touch. Here are 50 of the most e-mailed.

    Read more on the BBC news website

  • Viewpoint: American English is getting on well, thanks

    Viewpoint: American English is getting on well, thanks

    There's been much debate on these pages in recent days about the spread of Americanisms - outside the US. Here, American lexicographer and broadcaster Grant Barrett offers a riposte.

    Read more on the BBC news website

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