Anyone traveling to England for business or pleasure cannot avoid coming into contact with the locals. And this is where the problems and misunderstandings often begin. Sure, we all speak at least enough English to communicate these days. But is this the English that the English use? Well, in a way it is, at least as far as the words are concerned. However, the meaning behind it may be hidden from the inhabitants of Central Europe. Here is a small guide, taken from the Internet. Nobody knows who actually wrote it. Rumor has it that it was written by a Dutch company that gave it to its employees, who often had to travel to England. During my seminars, I often had English or American participants and I took the opportunity to check it with the help of native speakers. The hit rate was 98%!
This is due to the fact that the British (and Americans) tend to express themselves indirectly. This is due to their understanding of politeness. Direct communication, as we Germans cultivate and value it, is rather alien to the islanders. One man, one word – that sounds far too final for the British.
Speaking of politeness. The word “please” plays a major role in England. In the pub, you don’t order “one beer”, but “one beer, please“.
So here is the guide to understanding the islanders properly:
| What the British say | What the British mean | What the foreigner understands |
| 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 |
Then it’s just a matter of understanding the words. Like the Germans, the British also have a number of dialects. The best known is certainly Cockney, the language of the London proletariat. Or Scouse from Liverpool (the Beatles send their regards). Experience shows that it is difficult in the north of England. I was once part of a pan-European group of promising trainees sent by the company to various European markets, including the UK, for training and experience exchange. There we listened to a talk by an experienced specialist from Newcastle (they speak Geordie there). After about five minutes, my Italian seatmate turned to me and asked: “Do you understand what?” I shook my head. “Not a word.” Fortunately, Beaulieu is in the south of the country.
If it really gets too colorful, you can escape to London. Apart from English and its dialects, around 300 languages are spoken there. There’s bound to be one you can understand.
So take courage. If you don’t understand something, just ask again. But do it properly. So not: “Sorry, I don’t understand you.” More like: “I am sure that your point of view is very interesting. Being from the continent, however, I have difficulties to get accustomed to the local way of verbal expression. If it’s no trouble to you, could you please repeat what you just said.” And if in doubt – simply book one of our intercultural training courses in England or Great Britain!
Keep calm and carry on!
