Can the same language mean different things in different cultures?

Is it difficult for someone English to be friends with an American? Can there be misunderstandings due to words having very different meanings on each side of the pond? It seems like it is relatively easy to insult an American with absolutely no intent whatsoever? Anyone experienced this? What did you do to remedy the situation?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

Burnley123 · 41-45, M

My American ex was a teacher in London and was shocked when a child asked her to borrow a rubber (eraser).

bijouxbroussard · F

@Burnley123 When I was visiting my cousin in London I was puzzled when a friend of his we met on the street said she’d "knock" us "up" the next morning for sightseeing. 😳

walabby · M

@bijouxbroussard "Knocked up" is a somewhat dated Australian slang for feeling exhausted/weary. Americans have been quite surprised to hear it being used, especially by males...
... On the other hand, "rooting" for one's team in Australia would be spectacularly outlandish behaviour...