There are many different varieties of English around the world. The two most important varieties of English are British and American. (Which of those is most important is a discussion for another day.) The third most important is Indian English. It is different from the first two because it is a second language variety and not a native speaker variety. Hong Kong English has its own characteristics, but it is not as developed, nor as important internationally as Indian English. When people are doing international business they need to be aware of the different varieties of English. Even simple things can cause trouble, such as the difference in floor counting between British and American English.

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Since there is no government regulation of the English language, no variety of English is absolutely correct. Even in the United Kingdom there are local variations in English. Some other languages (French, German, Norwegian...) have government laws that decide the official spelling and grammar rules. English does not. English speakers can use whatever variety of English is most useful. Americans and British people will choose to use other varieties of English when it is useful; such as when they are doing business in other countries.

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Here is a glossary, or mini-dictionary, of Indian English words commonly found in Hong Kong. Most of these words are related to food and found in Hong Kong's Indian restaurants. This glossary can be very helpful in Hong Kong's many Indian restaurants.

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by John Larrysson

[email protected]

A native English speaker who has been teaching practical English in Hong Kong for more than a decade.