Top 18+ British Manners Americans Should Probably Start Using

Avoiding Loud Conversations in Public

Sometimes, it’s not what you say – it’s how loudly you say it. In the UK, people tend to keep their voices low in public places like trains, cafes, or queues as a way to show respect for the people around them.

As we all know far too well, Americans can be unintentionally loud, especially when on the phone. Keeping it down a notch shows awareness and, honestly, makes everyone’s day a little more peaceful.

Always Queueing Up Properly

Lining up is practically a national sport in Britain. No cutting, no crowding, no sighing loudly. In the U.S., on the other hand, lines can sometimes feel more like loose suggestions, especially at bus stops, food trucks, or crowded events.

Saying “Please” and “Thank You” More Often

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but the British take it to another level. “Please” and “thank you” aren’t just for formal occasions – they sprinkle them everywhere, including texting and casual conversations. Most people find that it makes interactions warmer and reminds everyone that good manners never go out of style.

Keeping Personal Drama to Yourself (Mostly)

Some things are better left unsaid, at least in public. Brits tend to be more reserved about their personal lives, especially with strangers or coworkers. It’s not usually that they’re trying to be cold or unfriendly; they just don’t overshare.

Americans, though, sometimes dive headfirst into life stories five minutes after meeting someone. A bit of discretion can be refreshing, especially in professional or public settings.

Apologizing to the Waitstaff

Here’s something subtle but impactful: in the UK, diners often apologize to waitstaff for “bothering” them, even when it’s just to ask for a refill or correct an order. It’s a subtle way of showing appreciation for someone else’s time and effort. Americans might be more direct, but adding a quick “Sorry, could I just grab…” makes the request softer and more respectful.

Not Overselling Yourself

Humility is a big deal in British culture. You won’t catch most Brits bragging about their accomplishments or talking about how busy and important they are. Americans could benefit from dialing it back sometimes. Let your work speak for itself and let others sing your praises instead.

Sending Thank-You Notes (Yes, Real Ones)

Even in the digital age, handwritten thank-you notes are still alive and well in the UK. After a dinner party, a job interview, or even a kind favor, Brits will often follow up with a quick note. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just a small gesture that says, “I noticed what you did, and I appreciated it.”

Saying “Cheers” Instead of Just “Bye”

In the UK, “cheers” is a catch-all word that means thanks, goodbye, or even “no worries.” It’s casual, upbeat, and has a friendly tone that makes even short interactions feel pleasant. Swapping out a flat “bye” for “cheers” could add a touch of warmth to everyday exchanges, especially emails and texts.

Keeping Things Understated

Instead of gushing or exaggerating, Brits often downplay things. If something’s good, they’ll say it’s “not bad.” And if it’s amazing, maybe you’ll get a “quite nice.” It’s not that they’re not impressed – they’re just modest. In the U.S., everything’s so “awesome” or “life-changing” that those words seem to lose all meaning.

Holding the Door (Even if No One’s Behind You Yet)

You’ll often see Brits holding the door for others, even if the person is a few steps away. In a rush, Americans sometimes forget the people right behind them. Holding that door for two extra seconds isn’t hard, and it sends a subtle message: I see you, and I care about your day being just a bit easier.

Not Making Everything About You

During British conversations, people tend to ask more questions and listen more than they talk. They don’t immediately pivot the conversation to themselves, as they know this can come across as self-centered and disinterested.

Letting Silence Be Okay

This might take some getting used to, as in the U.S., silence often feels awkward, like it needs to be filled right away. But Brits are a lot more comfortable with pauses, free from the need to rush in and cover every gap in conversation.

Sometimes, a little silence gives people space to think or just relax. It’s not uncomfortable at all once you’ve done it enough; it’s calm, and that can be surprisingly refreshing.

Dressing Neatly for Everyday Things

You don’t have to wear a suit to the grocery store, but Brits do tend to put effort into everyday dressing. Even casual outfits look put together. Taking that extra minute to look presentable can lift your mood and change how others respond to you.

Using Humor That’s Not Over the Top

British humor is dry, subtle, and often self-deprecating. Conversely, American humor can be louder, more obvious. There’s nothing wrong with that, but a shift toward gentler, smarter humor now and then adds variety – and sometimes lands better in mixed company.

Speaking Indirectly When Needed

“Could you possibly…” or “I was wondering if…” might sound overly wordy, but it’s how Brits soften requests. Instead of barking orders or sounding demanding, they ease into the ask.

Americans often go straight to the point, which is okay, but can come off as a little blunt at times. Softening the delivery can make people more friendly and open to helping.

Making Eye Contact Without Staring

Brits strike a good balance here, making eye contact to show they’re listening but not so much that it gets weird. Americans, especially in big cities, sometimes either avoid eye contact completely or stare too hard.