British
are very polite. Even when someone hits a Brit, he will apologise, despite
being the ‘victim’. Nevertheless, it has its negative side. Due to the mass use
of politeness in Britain, British people are unable to confront someone or
speak negatively about something, without seeming rude. Below is an interesting
table of what Brits say, what they mean and what foreigners understand. (This
table is not to be taken 100% seriously. I am sure there is a humorous side to
this).
WHAT THE BRITISH SAY
|
WHAT THE BRITISH MEAN
|
WHAT FOREIGNERS UNDERSTAND
|
I hear
what you say
|
I
disagree and do not want to discuss it further
|
He
accepts my point of view
|
With
the greatest respect
|
You are
an idiot
|
He is
listening to me
|
That's
not bad
|
That's
good
|
That's
poor
|
That is
a very brave proposal
|
You are
insane
|
He
thinks I have courage
|
Quite
good
|
A bit
disappointing
|
Quite
good
|
I would
suggest
|
Do it
or be prepared to justify yourself
|
Think
about the idea, but do what you like
|
Oh,
incidentally/ by the way
|
The
primary purpose of our discussion is
|
That is
not very important
|
I was a
bit disappointed that
|
I am
annoyed that
|
It
doesn't really matter
|
Very
interesting
|
That is
clearly nonsense
|
They
are impressed
|
I'll
bear it in mind
|
I've
forgotten it already
|
They
will probably do it
|
I'm
sure it's my fault
|
It's
your fault
|
Why do
they think it was their fault?
|
You
must come for dinner
|
It's
not an invitation, I'm just being polite
|
I will
get an invitation soon
|
I
almost agree
|
I don't
agree at all
|
He's
not far from agreement
|
I only
have a few minor comments
|
Please
rewrite completely
|
He has
found a few typos
|
Could
we consider some other options
|
I don't
like your idea
|
They
have not yet decided
|
The table points out that when Britons say 'I'm
sure it's my fault', it actually means 'it's your fault'.
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