How often do you use the German phrase “Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof”?

It’s actually one of my favourites.

In English we might say, “It’s all Greek to me.” Or even, “It’s as clear as mud.”

However, if you work with non-native speakers of English, I suggest that you avoid using phrases like these and choose to use plain English. It makes your message easier to understand.

In that case, I would just say, “I don’t get it!” Or even better, “I don’t understand it” or “I don’t understand you” or just “I don’t understand a thing!”.

Do you use any of these phrases?

Just because emoji are widely used in instant messaging, email and social networking, it doesn’t mean that everyone understands them in the same way.

We might send a thumbs-up symbol—👍— to show that we agree with someone. In the Middle East and Greece, however, it is seen as an insult. 

We use the clapping hands emoji—👏— to offer praise or to congratulate someone. But in China it can be understood as an invitation for making love. 

The slightly smiling emoji—🙂— is not seen as a sign of happiness in all countries. In China it implies distrust or disbelief, for example. 

This means that we need to be aware of these differences when communicating with a multicultural audience.

Do you often use emoji? Do you have any favourites?

Keep your head down. Follow the rules. Do as you’re told. Play it safe. Wait your turn. Ask permission. Learn to compromise. This is terrible advice according to Casey Neistat and Max Joseph. 

Want to be a creator? Do what you can’t—and you’ll get there!

A quick and dirty writing tip today.

We can replace these wordy phrases with one word:

a majority of = most
in order to = to
despite the fact that = although
continues to be = remains
at which time = when
at this point in time = now
due to the fact that = because

Can you think of any other phrases we could shorten?

Did you know that there are several words we use in German that sound as if they’re English, but they often mean something completely different?

A ‘slip’ is a mistake. We also talk about a ‘slip of paper’ (ein Blatt Papier). Perhaps you mean ‘panties’?

If you’re like me, you love films with a ‘happy ending’ (and not a ‘happy end’)!

A ‘shitstorm’ is not used in the same way. It’s not that common in English, and means a messy and repulsive situation.

And what you might call a ‘castingshow’ is what we call a ‘talent show’.

Oh, and an ‘oldtimer’ is an old person. Perhaps you mean a ‘veteran’ or ‘vintage car’?

And if you’re in the English-speaking world and want to have photos taken, remember to ask for a ‘photo shoot’ and not a ‘Photoshooting’.  I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you!

“Language is not a genetic gift, it is a social gift. Learning a new language is becoming a member of the club—the community of speakers of that language.”
Frank Smith

Okay, if you’ve been reading my “Sparks of English” for some time, I  wouldn’t call you a learner. You’re already a communicator of English. You might just not have the chance  to speak on a regular basis.

If this is you, why not come and join our free Speed Networking sessions every two weeks. And if you feel you need more support one day, we can talk. There are three ways you can work with me!