American > British Glossary | U
Smoothing and improving transatlantic communication
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O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z | Briticisms |
 American
term or expression |
 British
equivalent, or explanation |
|---|---|
| underground economy | black economy |
| underpass | subway (pedestrian walkway under road, etc.) |
| undershirt | vest |
| undershorts | short underpants |
| unemployment benefits, welfare (payments) | In the UK, the jobseeker's allowance (JSA) has replaced the former 'unemployment benefit' to avoid giving the impression that unemployment could in any way be beneficial. |
| uneven bars (in women's gymnastics) | asymmetric bars |
| university graduate | postgraduate |
| unlisted (phone) number | ex-directory |
| upscale | upmarket |
| uptown (see also downtown) | predominantly residential area toward north of city |
| utility knife, box cutter | craft knife, Stanley knife™ |
