If there is one trait everyone knows about me, it’s that I love the United Kingdom. I help to make this known by describing myself as “obsessed with” or “really liking” the UK when first introducing myself to others. I am not afraid to make my love for the UK known because it is an essential part of who I am. If you feel the same way, here are eight ways you know you are an Anglophile (someone who is fond of England or Great Britain).
1. Tea.
Let’s start off with an obvious one. While not everyone from the UK likes to drink tea (hard to believe, I know, but it’s true), I think it’s safe to say that most people do. If you’ve adopted the practice of drinking tea, you might be an Anglophile. I myself drink at least two cups of tea a day, like having tea parties, and prefer tea to coffee.
2. Accents.
Before I go on, there is something that must be explained. Although everyone says British accent, there really isn’t a British accent. Since Great Britain is comprised of England, Scotland, and Wales, all of which have their own distinct accents, it is more correct to say English accent, since most people are referring to how people from England sound when they say British accent. Now that’s taken care of, I think many people can agree that English accents are wonderful. Not only is it lovely to listen to, but talking (or attempting to talk) in an English accent is quite enjoyable. I’ll find myself randomly talking in an English accent, and I have even watched a couple of videos teaching me how to. A strong sign that you’re an anglophile is if you can recognize different accents from their corresponding parts of England. Is that a Northern accent I hear? Can you tell the difference between Cockney and Essex?
3. Words and phrases.
“In the UK they pronounce it…” is a phrase I say on a daily basis. I enjoy pointing out the different pronunciations of taco, zebra, or aluminum. I also sometimes say the British equivalent of a word instead of the word we use over here in the States; for example, jumper instead of sweater. Last night I said tomato sauce instead of pasta sauce. And there are some words no one in the United States says, such as knackered. As an anglophile, you know that mate is also said in the UK and not just in Australia. The true test of an Anglophile, however, is if you know what a cheeky Nando’s is and can understand the explanation of a cheeky Nando’s.
4. Food.
There are delightful places that I refer to as “the British shop” which sell food from the UK. Walking through the aisles of drinks, crisps (chips), and candy is an Anglophile’s dream come true. I can finally drink Ribena. I can taste the chocolate goodness of Maltesers and the minty freshness of Polos. It takes all of my self-control to not buy the entire shop of British delectables. And of course, I cannot forget about the classics: fish and chips, bangers and mash, and meat pies with a side of beans.
5. TV shows.
Everyone has heard of "Doctor Who," "Sherlock," and "Downton Abbey." But why watch "American Idol" (if it was still running) when you can watch "The X Factor UK?" Why keep up with the Kardashians when there’s "Made in Chelsea" and "The Only Way is Essex?" I do not think there is a United States equivalent of "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here," but I really wish there was. I guess I’ll make do with "Dancing with the Stars" instead of "Strictly Come Dancing" (I actually really like "Dancing with the Stars" but the UK version just always seems cooler to me). If you know what Eurovision is, then you’re probably an Anglophile.
6. Music.
Yes, One Direction, The Spice Girls, and The Beatles are obvious music artists from the UK, and Little Mix is on the rise, but as an Anglophile you know of British artists that no one else has heard of. Fancy listening to some Union J or Stereo Kicks? If you’re not in a boy band mood and are in more of a rock mood what about Biffy Clyro? You still want to listen to pop music? Then might I suggest Years and Years? Or if you want to hear a more relaxed singer songwriter sound, Tom Odell might be for you. When it comes to music festivals, Coachella might be more local, but I would rather go to BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.
7. The sight of the Union Jack excites you.
It doesn’t matter if the British flag is on a shirt, a phone case, or a cupcake. Whatever its form, you will want to buy it.
Or your friends and family will buy it for you because they know how much you love the UK. Either way, you will end up with a lot of belongings bearing the Union Jack.8. It is your dream to go to the UK.
I am lucky enough to say that my lifelong dream of traveling to England will finally be realized when I study abroad next school year. I can’t wait to see Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. I look forward to riding the London Eye and taking pictures in front of the colorful Brighton beach houses. I am especially excited to be able to shop in Primark and drink a coffee from Costa since they do not exist here. The whole experience will be magical since it is a dream come true.
