Gransnet forums

Pedants' corner

English as she is spoke (written) abroad

(28 Posts)
Christinefrance Sat 22-Jul-17 14:30:26

When my daughter brought her American soon to be fiance home 25 years ago he asked " have you got your fanny pack" to be met by a stunned silence

rosesarered Sat 22-Jul-17 14:15:18

Yes, more please grandtante we need more fun on here.smile
A friend of mine once had a Greek boyfriend who she was teaching English to ( amongst other things grin) and after going for a shower he announced proudly that he 'had washed his hairs too!' She told him the s on hair wasn't needed.

grandtanteJE65 Sat 22-Jul-17 13:46:06

Franglais is what the French think is English. Sometimes you need a fairly comprehensive knowledge of French (or one of the other Romance languages) to work out what they actually mean. Here are some examples from my own experience.

The harbor is open between 08h30-11AM and 14h30-19 PM

What they meant was that the harbour master’s office was open at the above stated times; you could sail into the harbour at any time you pleased.

Accostage and water drink They meant "mooring and drinking water" the heading was followed by a list of prices.

These examples are from Monthermé on the Meuse, one of the many small ports that cater to boaters on the French Meuse. I have others to share, if you find them funny.