Billions. I used to think that meant 1000, 000, 000....because it did! That's one of those little changes that occur around you without you really noticing it. The official definition of billion changed in the UK 1974, but maths teachers were a little reluctant to let go of the old way and I was in my thirties before I bothered noticing that this had changed :P
From wiki:
Quote:
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Although some residual usage of the long scale continues in the UK, the phrases "British usage" and "American usage" are no longer accurate or helpful characterizations. The two systems can be a subject of controversy and can arouse emotion. Usage changes can evoke resentment in adherents to the older system, while national differences of any kind can acquire patriotic overtones. [6]
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*chuckles*