Learn English – When making a presentation, do I use “slides” or “foils”

word-choice

Talks are often supported by presentations via a projector (with a presentation program such as Powerpoint).
During the talk, there is often a sentence like "next slide/foil/screen please" or "on this slide/foil you see […]".

In the past there were two techniques:

output on transparency/foils and presentation via an overhead projector
output on slides (Reversal film) and presentation via a slide projector

In my experience, most presenters use slide in their talks, but some use foil. LaTeX-based presentation tools use also slide and foil.

I have the impression that British speakers prefer foil, and American ones prefer slides.

Is there any rule or is it an individual preference? Or should I use screen like Next screen please?

Best Answer

In British English, I've never heard the term foils, although I have heard the term

Overheads (meaning transparent sheets for showing on an overhead projector)

and

Acetates (named after the clear plastic used in the overhead sheets).

British English speakers so far as I'm aware don't use the word foils in this context.

So whilst it might be worth being aware that some speakers might use the word foils meaning slides, as a learner you'd be well advised to prefer the more standard term slides.

In this context, slides can always be used in place of foils without loss of meaning, and will be clearer to a wider section of your audience.

Best Answer

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