Search from various English teachers...
Russia flagToma
What the British say and What they really mean :D Today we received funny handouts during our crosscultural communication class called ''Anglo-EU Translation Guide'' I'd like to quote some points that seem very funny to me. On the left what the British say and on the right what they really mean: 1. With the greatest respect... / I think you are an idiot 2. That's not bad / That's good 3. That is a very brave proposal / You are insane 4. Oh, incidentally, by the way / The primary purpose of our discussion... 5. Very interesting / That is clearly nonsense 6. I'll bear it in mind / I've forgotten it already 7. I'm sure it's my fault / It's your fault 8. You must come for dinner / It's not an invitation, I'm just being polite 9. I almost agree / I don't agree at all 10. I only have a few minor comments / Please re'write completely

Corrections · 11

0

What the British say and What they really mean :D

Today we received funny handouts during our crosscultural communication class called ''Anglo-EU Translation Guide''
I'd like to quote some points that seem very funny to me. On the left what the British say and on the right what they really mean:

1. With the greatest respect... / I think you are an idiot
2. That's not bad / That's good
3. That is a very brave proposal / You are insane
4. Oh, incidentally, by the way / The primary purpose of our discussion...
5. Very interesting / That is clearly nonsense
6. I'll bear it in mind / I've forgotten it already
7. I'm sure it's my fault / It's your fault
8. You must come for dinner / It's not an invitation, I'm just being polite
9. I almost agree / I don't agree at all
10. I only have a few minor comments / Please re-write completely

 

What do you think of this? :)

0
This is a fine example of using euphemism or double speak. Not everyone can be a diplomat. It is very important to pick up clues from the tones and body language.
0
Haha.... typical Home Counties middle-class conversation pieces. Here are a few others: I hear what you say / I disagree and do not want to discuss it further. Quite good / A bit disappointing. I was a bit disappointed / I was annoyed Can we consider some other options / I don't like your idea.
0
Daniel, you killed it. haha thanks you're too funny :D
0
Haha, this is all scarily true! Thanks for sharing :-)

Want to progress faster?

Join this learning community and try out free exercises!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn a language from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced language tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!

Start Learning Today