Dear Susan, thank you so much for your support of the English language. One must keep up the British stiff upper lip, and retain the correct decorum on such important matters!
Of course we do have other languages in our but small island (s). Notably Scottish Gaelic, Irish Gaelic and Welsh. Then of course there is the distinct dialect between our counties. From Geordie in the northeast to Scouse from Liverpool in the north west. Of course Glaswegian is very difficult to understand, but it is possible. Then to the broad dialect of Yorkshire, which is easy for me as my father is a true Yorkshireman, whereas my mother is a Geordie (still in England of course). To cockney rhyming slang from London, we are all a bit strange.
However we do all understand each other whilst using the Queens English!
I do so hope this may sort matters out, If confused try the Oxford English Dictionary, which is at;
http://www.oed.com/
Off for a pint of fine ale.
May you all prosper in your erstwhile endeavours, to find a cure for the damage the cold does to plants!
Personally I like the golden cloak of Autumn (fall), as it sets in, and my garden goes to sleep. Then our nations love of warming soups comes alive; of course made from vegetables nestling in the garden. Served with homemade bread and of course pints of foaming ales.
The cold and the rain we are used to, as it lasts all summer.
Regards from across the Atlantic.
Neil.
