There are so many little differences between Australian and American English. Some days it can be hard to understand each other--throw in some "ocker" accents (strong, country accents) and it's impossible. One little term that I often slip with with Mobile Phone. Of course in the US we call it a Cell Phone. Thankfully most people understand when I call it a "cell" though I have been made fun of for this once or twice.
Why is it a "cell" phone? Basically, mobile phones operate like a radio--a tower emits a frequency receivable within a certain distance, creating a circle around the tower--or cell--of usability. As I type this Jeremy (my boyfriend) tells me that in his network engineering classes, his professors refer to it as a Cellular Network--further confirmation that the American usage is correct. (Not that it matters.... Or that anyone is keeping score....)
Just for fun: what's an ocker accent sound like? This guy is a backpacker here in Oz (I think) but his accent is "spot-on" (as the Aussies would say)!
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