Saturday, March 9, 2013

Question, American English verses Australian English


Do you think Aussies should write their novel in American English and terms if
targeting the American market?

Even if one isn't targeting overseas, do you think the language should remain
Australian English? Would it take the Aussie flavour from the novel if it
wasn't?

I've had a few comments about words US readers haven't understood in 'Heat in the
Outback,' but at the same time, I've read many American novels where I've
skipped words as I don't know what they mean.

If a writer sticks to Aussie English, what do you think about a glossary of
terms/words? Do you think it would help readers?


Thank you for any feed back. Your opinion is valuable. :)

4 comments:

Maria Zannini said...

I don't think it's necessary. For myself, this is how I learn new words from other cultures.

As long as the word has context, I can figure it out.

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Hi Maria,
Thank you. I've also posted this question around the net. It will be interesting what others say.

Angelina Rain said...

I think it depends on the setting of your story. If your story is set in Australia, you should stick to Aussie English. If I don't understand a word, I google it but I usually guess the meaning by how it's used.

Suzanne Brandyn Author said...

Thank you Angelina.
It's going to be Aussie English, but when I get it back from the editor, and find too many Aussie words, or slang, I may put a glossary at the beginning of the novel. :)