Although there are 11 official languages in SA, English is commonly spoken by most. However it is British-English that is spoken so in some ways it does feel like we are learning a whole new language. For example, a cookie is a biscuit and a biscuit is a scone. French fries are chips and chips are crisps. While driving you stop when the robot is red and the pram (stroller) is kept in the boot (trunk) of the car. The list goes on and on. Fortunately after being here just shy of 3 years we have learned the lingo pretty well.
After our trip to America last year Blake was quite enamored at the vocabulary differences. He loves to share with South Africans ‘the American way’ of saying things….although most times his 4 year old insights are a bit askew. Let me offer an example his Sunday school teacher shared with me……
Apparently they were talking about Noah’s ark one Sunday morning and a discussion on animals ensued.
Teacher “Let’s name some of the animals Noah took on the ark.”
Children “….zebras, giraffes, warthogs...….hippos….”
At the mention of hippos Blake’s hand quickly went up.
Teacher “Yes, Blake”
Blake “In America we call a hippo……a hippopotamus!"
Shame, what a clever boy, hey?!
5 comments:
That is awesome, Michelle! Jack likes to tell people what things are called in Australia- and the results are often similar to your story.
My worst language difference story: Jack 18 months, Mick tells him (in thick Aussie accent) "bring me your ball"... and Jack brings him a bowl. Oh dear.
Oh, I laughed until I cried. How cute. My eighteen year and I were just discussing the differences between French and English. She got a real kick out of your post, too.
truly laughing with sound - absolutely darling. I just spent some time with an English friend and he said, "I'm just nattered" - I can only assume he was tired as it was followed by a yawn...
Blake is looking so grown up! How is that possible??!!
What a cute little boy!!! I agree with Beth, he looks SO grown up!
Post a Comment