The quintessential A to Z guide to British English—perfect for every egghead and bluestocking looking to conquer the language barrier

Oscar Wilde once said the Brits have "everything in common with America nowadays except, of course, language."

Any visitor to Old Blighty can sympathize with Mr. Wilde. After all, even fluent English speakers can be at sixes and sevens when told to pick up the "dog and bone" or "head to the loo," so they can "spend a penny." Wherever d...