By chance, this question came up for me twice in one day, on the same day that I listened to an Inquiring Minds podcast episode about how language shapes thought. What is wisdom to you? And how does your language influence that understanding? The Oxford English Dictionary defines wisdom as “The quality of having experience, … Continue reading What is wisdom?
We have really everything in common with America nowadays, except, of course, language. Oscar Wilde, The Canterville Ghost I have decided to try for my UK driver’s license. Or, as they call it here, my driving license. And right there is a clue to the most difficult part of studying for my theory test: the terminology. … Continue reading Driving Terminology
I’m currently reading a book, That’s Not English, all about the similarities and differences between British and American English. It’s delightful! And I wish I had discovered it earlier. (I picked it up by chance at the library while browsing a stand of recommended books.) I was especially shocked to discover a meaning for the … Continue reading Quite a Challenge
How is it that when I say the word croissant without a French accent, people in Britain will look at me quizzically and correct my pronunciation, but they don’t hesitate to butcher the word paella practically beyond recognition? Gordon Ramsay, I’m looking at you: Continue reading Pronunciation
I hit a milestone today: I had an entire conversation with a stranger in German over the phone. You should know that I hate phones. Even in English, I dislike talking with strangers on the phone, and with friends I prefer face-to-face communication, whether in person or via Skype. So a phone call in German has … Continue reading Making Phone Calls in German
Expat Linguist 