Wednesday, November 3, 2010

British English vs. Malaysian English

Who says our English is teruk? Just read below - Ours is simple, short, concise, straight-to-the-point, effective etc.



WHEN GIVING A CUSTOMER BAD NEWS

Britons: I'm sorry, sir, but we don't seem to have the sweater you want in your size, but if you give me a moment, I can call the other outlets for you.



Malaysians: No stock.



RETURNING A CALL

Britons: Hello, this is John Smith. Did anyone call for me a few moments ago?



Malaysians: Hello, who call?



ASKING SOMEONE TO MAKE WAY

Britons: Excuse me, I would like to get by.. Would you please make way?



Malaysians: S-kew me.



WHEN SOMEONE OFFERS TO PAY

Britons: Hey! Put your wallet away, this drink is on me.



Malaysians: No need lah.



WHEN ASKING FOR PERMISSION

Britons: Excuse me, but do you think it would be possible for me to enter through this door?



Malaysians: (pointing at the door) Can ah?



WHEN ENTERTAINING

Britons: Please make yourself right at home.



Malaysians: No need shy shy one lah!



WHEN DOUBTING SOMEONE

Britons: I don't recall you giving me the money.



Malaysians: Where got?



WHEN DECLINING AN OFFER

Britons: I would prefer not to do that, if you don't mind.



Malaysians: Don't want lah.



IN DISAGREEING ON A TOPIC OF DISCUSSION

Britons: Err...Tom, I have to stop you there. I understand where you're coming from, but I really have to disagree with what you said about the issue.



Malaysians: You mad ah?



WHEN ASKING SOMEONE TO LOWER THEIR VOICE.

Britons: Excuse me, but could you please lower your voice? I'm trying to concentrate over here.



Malaysians: Shut up lah!



WHEN ASKING SOMEONE IF HE/SHE KNOWS YOU..

Britons: Excuse me, but I noticed you staring at me for sometime. Do I know you?



Malaysians: See what, see what?



WHEN ASSESSING A TIGHT SITUATION.

Britons: We seem to be in a bit of a predicament at the moment..



Malaysians: Die lah!!



WHEN TRYING TO FIND OUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED

Britons: Will someone tell me what has just happened?



Malaysians: What happened ah?    or    Why like that one lah?



WHEN SOMEONE DID SOMETHING WRONG

Britons: This isn't the way to do it. Here, let me show you.



Malaysians: Like that also don't know how to do!



WHEN ONE IS ANGRY

Britons: Would you mind not disturbing me?



Malaysians: Celaka you!

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