Have you ever noticed that your food or drink order can get lost in translation, even when you’re talking the same language?
My caffeinated tipple of choice in the UK is an Americano with skimmed milk…
When I tried to order this in Australia, I got a rather odd look…what I should be ordering is a long black with skim milk. Though actually these aren’t exactly the same as they are prepared opposite ways (Americano: add hot water to espresso; Long Black: add espresso to water). In the States, I also need to order a Long Black but with fat free or non-fat milk. Confusing, isn’t it? And what if we want something a little sweet with our coffee? Well in the UK I’d ask for a nice couple of biscuits or biccies, as I would in Australia. But in the States I’d need to order a cookie…as a biscuit is more like a scone… Can you imagine the scone / biscuit / muffin confusion when hashtag of International bloggers meet for tea?
Now as I grew up watching a lot (and I mean a hell of a lot) of American teen drama and reading Sweet Valley High and Point Romance books, I’m pretty au fait with how to translate ‘English’ into ‘American.’ An addiction to Neighbours has also aided my understanding of ‘Australian.’ But Mr S didn’t have such a misspent youth, he was too busy playing football and other various outdoor activities. So I often find myself helping him along the way…
In the States I’ve many times had to stop Mr S ordering ‘chips’ when he really wants fries….
Actually in French Polynesia we both go lost in translation as when Mr S ordered a burger with ‘chips’ he ended up with a side of crisps. In Australia it’s even more confusing as ‘chips’ means both ‘fries’ and ‘crisps.’ Also make sure you’re clear on whether you’re ordering this with tomato sauce or ketchup… And also what are you having to drink? A soda, soft drink or fizzy pop? Personally I would just stick to the international language of wine…
And don’t even get me started on vegetables…do you know your aubergine from your eggplant? Courgette from your zucchini or pepper from your capsicum. And when it comes to a treat, in the States don’t forget to ask for candy rather than sweets; a popsicle rather than a lolly and cotton candy instead of candy floss; and in Australia, change this to fairy floss!
What do you mean you can’t find it on google? How can it be worth finding?
Keep your kids away from the deep fat fryer
Well there’s pepsi if you don’t fancy cock…
It’s not what they use at KFC….
I love this apt translation….
And I wonder what the special of the day is here?
Our ever growing hashtag of bloggers is a mixed bunch of Brits, Aussies, Kiwis, Americans, South Africans and more and every month we link to celebrate the glory of travel. This month the topic is lost in translation. Have you ever had an awkward moment of misunderstanding? Found a hilarious notice or road sign? Over the first week of March just add you post to the link up widget on Emma, Rebecca, Kelly or Sam’s blog.
And have you ever had a foodie moment that’s got lost in translation? What the weirdest thing that you’ve ever seen on a menu? Please let me know in the comment form below.
