How Do People from the U.K. Prefer to Be Referred to: English or British?

People from England are often called both English and British, but personal preferences and regional identities make this a bit more complicated. Here’s a closer look at the nuanced terminology of the U.K.

Complexities of U.K. Identity

Say 'Ian' or 'Mr. Barkham,' and you'll engage in a more personal dialogue, but here in the U.K., we are quite complicated with our terms of address. For North Americans, it seems that calling people British is a leftover from colonial times, but somehow it has stuck for the past 250 years.

Identity in the U.K.

When we were born and raised in England, we naturally identify as English. People from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland would prefer to be referred to as Scottish, Welsh, or Irish, respectively. For us U.K. citizens, the British Isles include four regions: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but the Republic of Ireland maintains its own status as Irish. The United Kingdom refers to all regions excluding the Republic of Ireland.

Passports and Identity

The U.K. has a unique system of identity. For instance, people born in the British Isles can have a passport that simply states 'British.' However, if you have ancestry from the Republic of Ireland or other European Union countries, you can apply for an EU passport. This can ease travel to other EU countries, but it's not the only option.

Historically, U.K. citizens held EU passports during their membership in the European Union, but now that the U.K. has left the union, citizens must obtain British passports again. Some who prefer EU passports can apply based on their European ancestry.

How to Address Someone?

It's important to respect and understand the differences in how people in the U.K. prefer to be addressed. Here are some common terms and their meanings:

British: Refers to anyone from the United Kingdom, encompassing England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. English: Specifically refers to people from England. While many people from England are comfortable being called English, being called British might be seen as disrespectful if they have a strong connection to their English identity.

Generally, it is best to ask individuals how they prefer to be identified, as personal preferences can vary significantly. Political, cultural, and personal factors all play a role in how we self-identify.

Whatever term you choose, we in the U.K. take it in stride. We don't mind being called British, as long as we are addressed with respect and kindness.