Do British People Say TV Program or TV Show?

British people have their own unique terminology when it comes to referring to television content. However, confusion can arise because of the similarities in usage between 'program' and 'show.' This article aims to clarify these terms and help you understand how Brits refer to various types of television content.

British TV Terminology: Program vs. Show

British people typically use the terms 'program' or 'show' interchangeably, with 'show' becoming more common in the age of streaming services. For example:

Program: This term is often used for individual television broadcasts or live events, such as news or live sports. Show: A broader term that can include any type of television content, such as dramas, sitcoms, game shows, and so on.

However, it's important to note some distinctions in usage:

“Programmes” usually, although “shows” is becoming more common in the age of streaming services. It’s like most things: US culture and language always seem to get us in the end. I remember when I was a kid you would always 'phone' or 'ring' someone now it’s usually 'call' certainly if you’re under about 50. It’ll go like that I think.”

Especially with the rise of streaming services, the terms are blending, with 'show' gaining more popularity in everyday British language.

Series and Episodes: A Clarity on Terminology

When discussing series and episodes, Brits have a clear system:

TV Show or Programme: A broader term that can include individual episodes, series, or any kind of regularly scheduled television content. Series: A collection of episodes that make up a season, often with a cohesive storyline. In the UK, a season typically includes between 6 to 8 episodes. Episode: An individual part of a series or season.

Here’s a breakdown of these terms:

TV Show or Programme: This term can refer to both one-offs (special episodes or single broadcasts) and series. For example, a soap opera is a TV show that runs for many years with ongoing storylines, while a news broadcast is a one-off event. Series: When referring to a series, it means a collection of episodes that are released in a specific order, often spanning multiple episodes or seasons. For example, a TV drama series might have several seasons, each comprising 6-8 episodes. Episode: An individual episode within a series. For example, in a popular TV series, a specific episode might be referred to as 'Episode Number X.' This episode could be part of one or more seasons.

It can be confusing at first, but:

“Programme confusingly for shows individual episodes and series. Series confusingly both for seasons and series. Show confusingly for both one-offs and series. In other words we’re totally inconsistent and not to be trusted! As streaming has become more common however there are increasing numbers of people like me employing nothing but the simple American system of show, season, and episode.”

A Unique British Term: Telly

While 'program' and 'show' are widely used, Brits have a unique word for their television set:

neither. they say telly. not TV. “what’s on telly” or “let’s watch that programme on telly tonight you know the one with the dancing”

The word "telly" is short for "television" and is widely used in British colloquial speech. To a Brit, "telly" can mean the television set itself or the programs being watched on it.

Conclusion

Brits have their own distinctive language when discussing television content. Whether it's using the term 'program', 'show', or the colloquial 'telly', understanding these terms can help in better communication and appreciation of British television culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do Brits call their TV set?

Brits often refer to their TV set as "telly" which is short for "television."

What is the difference between a program and a show?

A program typically refers to a single broadcast or live event, while a show can be used more broadly to include any type of regularly scheduled television content, including individual episodes and series. Confusingly, both terms can be used interchangeably in British English, but 'show' is becoming more common in the age of streaming services.

How do Brits refer to TV series and episodes?

A TV series is a collection of episodes that are released in a specific order, often spanning multiple episodes or seasons. An episode is an individual part of a series. The distinction can be a bit blurry, but as streaming has become more common, British usage is slowly aligning with American terms like 'shows,' 'seasons,' and 'episodes.'