A major dictionary of regional expression demonstrates that there is not just one form of American English.
The Dictionary of American Regional English, also known as DARE, is much more than a compendium of American idiomatic expressions. The word “Regional” in its title indicates that it also shows where Americans use the words and expressions that are included.
Even language experts (such as English teachers) often contrast “American English” with “British English” or “Australian English.” While differences definitely exist between “national” forms of English, great regional variations can be found even within the same country – and the USA is no exception.
As the DARE website points out, “Americans have many names for the kind of sandwich that includes meats, cheeses, lettuce, tomatoes, etc., served in a long bun. What DARE can tell you… is where the words hero, hoagie, grinder, sub, torpedo, Cuban, etc. are the local terms for this sandwich.”
DARE has been a large-scale and long-term project that is not yet complete. The first volumes — letters A through Sk- were published over a 17 –year-period (1985-2002). The final tome, Volume V – which will finally bring the work to the letter Z — is presently scheduled for publication in 2011.
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