I found a couple more items for our ever-growing list of English
vocabulary differences among Britain, America, and (now) Australia. Are
there any other English-speaking cultures which we should be including
(e.g. India, South Africa, New Zealand)?
1.) Latex Prophylactics Department
We've been through the eraser/rubber/condom discussion already. I
recently was told by a Welsh acquaintance that "Durex" in Australia is a
brand of adhesive tape ("Scotch tape" in America), but in England, a
"Durex" is a condom. Comments?
2.) Interestingly-named British Food Items Department
Toad In The Hole: Batter pudding with sausage cooked inside. Baked in
individual serving dishes/ramekins/custard cups.
3.) Miscellaneous Vocabulary Department
In England, "a bomb" is a great success, while in America, it's a dismal
failure.
A British "chat program" is known as a "talk show" in America.
"Pissed" in England means "drunk/intoxicated," while in America it either
means "angry" or the past tense of a slang term for urination.
4.) Naughty Bits Department
I've been following the discussion of "fanny" with great amusement. I
never realized why "Fanny Hill" was such a scandalous title! At great
risk of invoking the wrath of the Political Correctness Police and
Self-Appointed Guardians of Decency, I'm inviting slang vocabulary
submissions for the following concepts:
Genitalia, Male
Genitalia, Female
Other Body Parts (Breasts, Buttocks, etc.)
Sexual Activity (Masturbation, Intercourse, other variations)
If you have a submission for these items, but are shy about identifying
yourself, do NOT respond to this newsgroup, but send private E-mail to me,
or use an anonymous remailer.
5. Australian Vocabulary Department
I need submissions from some authentic Aussies, here. The only Australian
word I know is "billabong" or "billie" which I believe means "teakettle."
That's all for now, folks.
Jeff Zahn (jzahn@aol.com)