Culture – Translating What the Brits Say . . To What They Really Mean
Last month I spent a week in North Carolina for my brother’s wedding. What surprised me most was not the drinking water fountains in abundance, the SERIOUSLY nice people everywhere I went, the slow drawled speech or the constant cuisine of fried foods but rather how LOUD everyone was, and that strangers actually started conversations with me in places like elevators or a line at a restaurant. Reverse culture shock struck again. So speaking of culture . . . A few weeks ago on Facebook someone posted the following list that made me laugh. I have no idea who the author is (otherwise I would give credit), but the list was spot on to many Brits I’ve encountered who err on the side to being too polite.
A disclaimer though, this list doesn’t apply to close friends who, of course, can be brutally honest with you . . . .
1) WHAT THE BRITISH SAY
2) WHAT THE BRITISH MEAN
3) WHAT FOREIGNERS UNDERSTAND
*1) I hear what you say 2) I disagree and do not want to discuss it further
3) He accepts my point of view
*1) With the greatest respect 2) You are an idiot
3) He is listening to me
*1) That’s not bad 2) That’s good
3) That’s poor
*1) That is a very brave proposal 2) You are insane
3) He thinks I have courage
*1) Quite good 2) A bit disappointing
3) Quite good
*1) I would suggest 2) Do it or be prepared to justify yourself
3) Think about the idea, but do what you like
*1) Oh, incidentally/ by the way 2) The primary purpose of our discussion is
3) That is not very important
*1) I was a bit disappointed that 2) I am annoyed that
3) It doesn’t really matter
*1) Very interesting 2) That is clearly nonsense
3) They are impressed
*1) I’ll bear it in mind 2) I’ve forgotten it already
3) They will probably do it
*1) I’m sure it’s my fault 2) It’s your fault
3) Why do they think it was their fault?
*1) You must come for dinner 2) It’s not an invitation, I’m just being polite
3) I will get an invitation soon
*1) I almost agree 2) I don’t agree at all
3) He’s not far from agreement
*1) I only have a few minor comments 2) Please rewrite completely
3) He has found a few typos
*1) Could we consider some other options 2) I don’t like your idea
3) They have not yet decided
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