[OSM-talk] Anglo (- Dutch) translation guide (was: Re: Import guidelines & OSMF/DWG governance)

Maarten Deen mdeen at xs4all.nl
Wed Sep 19 11:17:16 BST 2012


On 2012-09-19 12:04, Richard Fairhurst wrote:

> It's also been observed, quite rightly, that the nuances of British 
> English
> - which tends to "gently suggest" when other languages would say "you
> MUST!!!?!1" - are not easily appreciated by non-native speakers. We 
> had a

For this I always use the (completely accurate) "Anglo - Dutch 
translation guide".

In light of this discussion, especially note point 5. I'm sure "dutch" 
can be replaced with any other nationality.


British say: I hear what you say
British mean: I disagree and don't want to discuss it any further
Dutch understand: He accepts my point of view

British say: With the greatest respect...
British mean: I think you are a fool
Dutch understand: He's listening to me

British say: That's not bad
British mean: That's very good
Dutch understand: That's poor or mediocre

British say: Quite good
British mean: A bit disappointing
Dutch understand: Quite good

British say: I would suggest...
British mean: Do it or be prepared to justify yourself
Dutch understand: Think about the idea but do what you like

British say: Oh, by the way...
British mean: The primary purpose of this discussion is..
Dutch understand: This is not very important

British say: I was a bit disappointed that...
British mean: I'm most upset and cross
Dutch understand: It doesn't really matter...

British say: Very interesting..
British mean: I don't believe you...
Dutch understand: They are impressed

British say: I'll bear it in mind
British mean: I will do nothing about it
Dutch understand: They will probably do it

British say: I'm sure it's my fault
British mean: It's your fault!
Dutch understand: It was their fault!

British say: That's an original point of view
British mean: You're an idiot
Dutch understand: They like my ideas!

British say: You'll get there eventually
British mean: You don't stand a chance in hell
Dutch Understand: Keep on trying, for they agree I'm on the right track

Regards,
Maarten




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