English

The bandage was wound around the wound. The farm was used to produce produce. The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse. We must polish the Polish furniture. He could lead if he would get the lead out. The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes. I did not object to the object. The insurance was invalid for the invalid. There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row. They were too close to the door to close it. The buck does strange things when the does are present. A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line. To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow. The wind was too strong for us to wind the sail. After a number of injections my jaw got number. Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear. I had to subject the subject to a series of tests. How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend? Let’s face it - English is a crazy language. ...

What 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 By: Alice Philipson