British "The"

"If you listen to a Brit speak you will hear them pause every time in the following sentence: 'He went to - university.' or 'She went to - hospital.' They really want to say the word 'the' as in 'He went to the university.' or 'She went to the hospital.' It doesn't matter what region or what class they are they always have to fight to not use the word 'the.' They have been fighting a loosing battle on that front for centuries." BBT- - - - It's true. I have travelled to the UK (England, Scotland and Northern Ireland) many times, I have many British friends and I have watched lots of British movies and shows. They all do that pause where they really want to use the word "the." You should see the look of pure joy when a British actor/actress is playing an American or a Canadian and can finally stop fighting the urge and say "the."