“Take” a Decision or “Make” a Decision? UK or US-style? Which one wins in office settings?

Insider Information: Many of my clients tell me that US-English is becoming more popular in the international business world. There’s a race to keep up with current trends. Let’s dive in so you don’t miss out!

Here are 5 common phrases between Americans and British English:

1. “Take a decision” (UK) vs. “Make a decision” (US)

   UK: Power is assumed, granted, or seized — you take it.

   US: Power is built — you make it happen.

   ➡️ Grammar meets history. Colonial inheritance vs. entrepreneurial creation.

   
   

2. “He’s on holiday” (UK) vs. “He’s on vacation” (US)

   UK: Holiday = any personal time off.

   US: Holiday = Christmas, Thanksgiving, a federal day.

   ➡️ Americans hear “holiday” and think Hallmark Christmas cards. Brits mean “beach and pints.”

   
   

   Confused? Every ESL learner is too.

   
   

3. “School holiday” (UK) vs. “School break” (US)

   UK parents: “We’ll be away — it’s half-term holiday.”

   US parents: “Oh, you mean spring break?”

   ➡️ British school holidays sound festive. American ones sound… like a party.

   Bonus: Americans never call it “holiday homework.” That’s a recipe for rebellion.

   
   

4. “He’s in hospital” (UK) vs. “He’s in the hospital” (US)

   UK: It’s a state of being, not a building.

   US: It’s a place you go, deal with, and leave.

   ➡️ One is existential. One is transactional. Both send flowers.

   
   

5. “Touch wood” (UK) vs. “Knock on wood” (US)

   Same superstition. Different sounds.  Brits touch. Americans knock.

   ➡️ Either way, the fear of jinxing is universal. But let’s be honest — Americans do it louder.

⚡️Why it matters:

If you're writing cross-border copy, you're not just picking the right word—you're picking the right mindset. Your phrasing can confuse, amuse, or connect. Choose wisely. Localize with intent.

✍️ Curious: What phrases have you seen trip people up across cultures?

🌐 Visit www.AurumBorealis.com to sharpen your cross-cultural communication and write English that connects everywhere. We'll help you strike the right tone—without losing your voice.