In this essay, we will cover the difference between quid and pound so that you can completely separate the two words. They are often used interchangeably due to the fact that they are essentially the same thing, but this is where some of the confusion comes from when we look at this topic. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay By providing you with the exact definition of each word along with a quick reference highlighting the key variations between them you will walk away from our post today with a full understanding of what they mean and how to use them effectively. Ready to put this debate about words aside and start using these terms confidently as part of written and spoken language? Quid is: "a slang word used to replace the word pound but with the same meaning." Although the word quid probably sounds like some kind of made-up noise when we compare it to the base word it represents, it actually has deeply historical origins that connect to the ancient Latin language, specifically the phrase "quid pro quo" which translates as 'something for something'. If we ask what a pound is versus a pound, we probably expect them to be somewhat different, but that is absolutely not the case. Given the historical roots of both words, they are actually both valid terms itself. The real difference is that the official currency of Great Britain is the British Pound. This means that any other word used to describe a British pound is categorically unofficial and therefore a substitute or slang word of the word quid. Since it is used to replace the word pound when inserted into the structure of a sentence, by default it means that it is a slang word as it is not recognized as the official word for British currency. However, when used as part of a flowing conversation, you will find that it is entirely appropriate and contextually acceptable to use both words if you are referring to British currency. There is no difference between quid and pound other than one word is "official" and the other is slang. Pound is: "the official currency of Great Britain, also known as the British Pound or GBP for short". The above definition also reveals another slang variation of the British pound in the form of the abbreviation GBP, which is also commonly used. The term quid falls into the same bracket and is used as stand in much the same way. It is worth noting that, although the line between quid and sterling is admittedly thin, one would not realistically expect to use the term quid, nor would it be appropriate, on any official documentation referring to British currency. The only official way to describe British currency is to use the term British pound. The term quid is only appropriate when used in a casual context to describe this type of currency, but would not be appropriate for use as part of any official or written document in reference to this subject. I will now provide the key differences between these two words with a quick reference that you can return to whenever you find yourself lost on this topic to refresh your memory. Word: Quid and Pound. Their definitions: a slang word for the British pound; and an official term for the British pound. When do we use them? To describe British currency; and to describe British currency. Where do they come from? The Latin phrase 'quid pro quo' and the Latin word “Libra”. The context for quid is casual and for poud it is official. Here.