The Common Language Problem.

‘I’ve begun to feel awkward about something.’

‘What?’

‘Well, when I write “I’ve got myself into a load of trouble,” it doesn’t feel right.’

‘Why not?’

‘Because I’ve become so used to Americans using “gotten” in that context that ‘got’ seems incomplete.’

‘You mustn’t think that way. Far too many American idioms and phrases creeping into the Queen’s English these days. Stand firm, lad. If Maddie from upstate New York can write “I knit a scarf,” you can write “I’ve got myself into a load of trouble.” Damn Yankees!’

‘Isn’t “Damn Yankees” an American expression?’

‘Erm… Yes, I think it probably is.’

‘Whoops?’