Monday, April 13, 2009

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? 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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