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| Britain |
| English as a Second Language |
| 2005-01-28 |
| From Harpers Magazine From a guide intended to help foreigners understand the idiosyncrasies of British English What they say: I'm sure it's my fault. What is understood: It is his fault. What they mean: It is your fault. What they say: By the way/Incidentally . . . What is understood: This is not very important. What they mean: The primary purpose of our discussion is ... What they say: Correct me if I'm wrong. What is understood: Tell me what you think. What they mean: I know I'm right—please don't contradict me. What they say: With the greatest respect . . . What is understood: He is listening to me. What they mean: I think you are wrong, or a fool. What they say: Quite good. What is understood: Quite good. What they mean: A bit disappointing. Others at the site |
| Posted by:Mike Sylwester |
| #4 http://www.whoohoo.co.uk/main.asp Howard, Bulldog, McNails, Is this legit? It's supposedly a translator from English into various UK dialects. By the way McNails, I'm a Stewart. |
| Posted by: Deacon Blues 2005-01-28 9:45:39 PM |
| #3 heheh. raj in onto my trix |
| Posted by: muck4doo 2005-01-28 8:18:56 PM |
| #2 My interpretation: What they do: Opening a door or allow you to go first: What they understand: He thinks I am more important What they mean: I'm just checking her ass out. |
| Posted by: Raj 2005-01-28 1:11:17 PM |
| #1 classic! Here's my favorite non-verbal misunderstanding. What they do: Opening a door or allow you to go first: What they understand: He thinks I am more important What they mean: I am stronger, or more dominant than you. |
| Posted by: 2b 2005-01-28 9:14:42 AM |