Say What?

[BigBlue66]

Hey, I didn't just fall off the turnip truck yesterday, but what the hell does somebody mean when they say, "My bad?"

If it means something like "my mistake", or similar, why can't people just say that? My bad. My bad what? Is this reserved for the younger generation?

I don't get it.

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This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"We all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[YODA74]

What ever happened to good old English language. Sounds like some of that damn street language. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif

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Death has come to our windows.

-- Jeremiah 9:21
(undoubtedly a Biblical reference to a Microsoft product!)

YODA74@carolina.rr.com

[Gallaeglagh]

Well, calm down BB it's just an expression. This reminds me of a story I once read that was stating the way the younger generation goes about with the lack of culture and dedication that society as we know it will no longer exist. And it went on for a while like that and the way the article was presented you thought it was about modern society but actually [and I'm guessing at this] it was Aristotle talking about Greek society at the time.

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Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons. -- Popular Mechanics, forecasting the relentless march of science, 1949

[Whyzman]

BB,

'Tis nothing new...languages take on idioms as a matter of course. And, most often define themselves with what's taking place in society among the younger generation. Remember Groovy, Cool, Rad, Awesome?

I suspect what's a bit irritating about this particular idiom is that an error or mistake is most often accompanied by not only the acknowledgment of said, but also an apology. This idiom could potentially invite an agrieved party to think/believe/feel that the perpetrator is "making light" of the situation.

More than likely, just as befell our generation's "Groovy," this too shall pass! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[kayofcircles]

As one who uses freely the expressions "cool" and "awesome", I can't say anything much here..lol. I actually rather like "my bad"..shorthand for "I realize I don't do well on this and I apologize for my mistake". But, I never really understood that phase my son went through where "bad" meant good, so can identify with your irritation.

I remind myself of what Gallaeglagh is talking about when I hear some rap songs. Just as rock and roll did not have the dire consequences predicted by elders at the time..hopefully, rap will not either! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[hiredgoonz]

That phrase annoys me, don't know why, just does...

Ran into it A LOT in the military, first heard it in boot camp over 5 yrs ago, don't know where it originated...

Of course the military is a good place for language mishaps, two of my favorites:

orientated (as opposed to oriented...orientated IS a word, it means to turn or face east, so definitely used incorrectly)

myself (used where one should use the word "I" probably in an attempt to appear educated)



------------------
When all else fails, read the instructions.

Microsoft Knowledge Base (http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;rid;kbinfo)

Google (http://www.google.com)

[Pianorak]

I shouldn't really start on this one since my doctor keeps telling me to mind my blood pressure, BUT what drives me absolutely nuts is when I hear "cheers" instead of "thank you" and "less" instead of "fewer". In fact, the word "fewer" seems to have disappeared from the English language altogether. Another source of irritation are (UK) shop assistants either ignoring one or enquiring: "You alright?" instead of "May I help you?" What do they mean: Am I alright? Do they want me to go and see a doctor, a shrink, a plastic surgeon, an undertaker?
In contrast, American shop assistants just can't do enough for you and couldn't be more polite and helpful; at least that was my experience in Los Angeles (Calif.) about a year ago.


------------------
Grigory Sokolov, a pianist of extraordinary talent . . .

[Ghost_Hacker]

It's like a club or tribe. You know someone belongs if they understand the lingo. We geeks have our club lingo too and if a person doesn't understand what "addy" or "box" means then we know he/she ain't "cool". http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[BigBlue66]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Pianorak:
In contrast, American shop assistants just can't do enough for you and couldn't be more polite and helpful;[QUOTE]

Hahahahahahahaha, now that's purty funny. You definitely found somebody on a good day. hahahahahaha Sorry, can't help it. Excuse me while I wipe the tears from my eyes.

Here's another vocabulary item that really gets to me and that's the improper use of "let" and "leave".

Oh well. Live and leave live I reckon.


------------------
This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"We all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[Randy_tx]

The thought of "my bad" being replaced with something else as soon as the next generation comes up with it, is both aggravating and a sign of my age http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

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XP didn't save Me !

[Vic 970]

bb



I don't get it.




Do you mean "I no understand" ?

I have a friend who answers every question (concerning himself) with "me"

eg:

Q; what are you doing tonight ? A;me I'm staying in

Q; where are you working now ? A;me at the bus depot

Q; have you got a monkey wrench? A;me Yeh, in my toolbox

it seems more irritating when the 2 of us are alone in his workshop.



------------------
for every question there's an answer. Then a load more questions.
Definition of Upgrade "A means of introducing new bugs to a program to replace the ones that you have eventually found fixes for"

Regards..,
Vic.

[Pianorak]

Well, BigBlue, glad to have provided you with some amusement. Maybe a move to LA might convince you? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif
Or maybe you are hinting that it would be wise to stay well clear of Madison shop assistants? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif



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Grigory Sokolov, a pianist of extraordinary talent . . .

[BigBlue66]

Vic:

Me, yeah, I don't get it. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Now that would be very annoying.

------------------
This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"We all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[This message has been edited by BigBlue66 (edited 02-27-2002).]

[Whyzman]

BB,

You've opened the proverbial Pandora's Box for me with this topic as it hedges on what I would call "Social Irritations!"

My biggest pet peeve right now is when a cashier hands me back my change and doesn't count it for me. It is especially irritating when I hand them a $100 bill for a $10 purchase and get handed a pack of money. If I was a quick change artist I'd be having a field day! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

And, gentlemen over 40, have you had your PSA level checked to make sure that your prostrate gland is in good stead?! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

How do you do this BB?? This thread could potentially get as many responses as your "Meaning of your Handle!" http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[This message has been edited by Whyzman (edited 02-27-2002).]

[Steve]

Hi folks,

In my day it was "Far out, man" and "fur sure". http://community.theunderdogs.org/smiley/happy/hippie.gif

Now when my 17 y/o daughter gives me some new speak, I ask for a translation. Every generation and group has their lingo. All I ask is they talk to me in English!

Whyzman, PSA! I guess we know this is the After Hours forum. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif Sure beats the other test! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif

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Peace and Love, brothers and sisters. Peace and Love

[This message has been edited by Steve (edited 02-27-2002).]

[ranchdog]

The thing that really Burns my Buns is a person
who says "huh?" each and every time you speak to them.

Read my Lips.

Is
My Good out of reason.

Better peel. Maybe just bolt.



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....How long is a minute... depends on which side of the Bathroom door you're on. ......
..........

[BigBlue66]

Never mind. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/redface.gif

[This message has been edited by BigBlue66 (edited 02-27-2002).]

[Whyzman]

What-ever! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/mad.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[Smiley36]

Originally posted by hiredgoonz:
That phrase annoys me, don't know why, just does...

Ran into it A LOT in the military, first heard it in boot camp over 5 yrs ago, don't know where it originated...

Of course the military is a good place for language mishaps, two of my favorites:

orientated (as opposed to oriented...orientated IS a word, it means to turn or face east, so definitely used incorrectly)

myself (used where one should use the word "I" probably in an attempt to appear educated)


Just chuckling...<grin>

[sea69]

hiredgoonz:
That phrase annoys me, don't know why, just does...

same here!

it just seems incomplete somehow and pitiful.

lol

http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif



------------------
sea1_69@hotmail.com

homepage (http://www.seanweb1.homestead.com/3.html)

[kayofcircles]

Well, I am chastened..and will not be using the offending expression here.

Think we need to be careful, though..just a bit. When child rearing, I suddenly realized one day that I was in danger of becoming my mother. Not to disparage my mom, but I wanted to be myself..so made an effort to incorporate the best of me with the best of my mom's stuff. I sure don't want to become my grandmother! As one gets older, one finds oneself fussing about the same things one's elders griped about...with my husband, it is prices. He is always going on about the way things were much less expensive when he was younger...which is true, but one has to deal with the way things are now.

And when you think about it, the children speaking in "code" now are tomorrow's professionals and they will be "talking" in the same language as most do because they will have to. I think that some of the street language I hear sounds a LOT better to me than the Texas slang..things like "I ain't got nobody" (song lyric) was quite common when I was growing up. (And we have relatives in Texas that still talk that way.)

[hiredgoonz]

Well, I'm old and set in my ways, and I'm not even old yet...and every time I hear "my bad" I cringe http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

------------------
When all else fails, read the instructions.

Microsoft Knowledge Base (http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;rid;kbinfo)

Google (http://www.google.com)

[mjc]

My Bad = mea culpa lite (without the guilt) http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

------------------
mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[Vic 970]

yeh, they all orta be tort to speek proper like wot we dus, sose we can dig wot thair on abowt, it rite gets up my nows wen thees ankel-biterrsss goes past the ows and i kanna understand wat theyz on about, and jeez av yu seen wot ther riitins liyk, itz bein brort up with all theez computer things as dus it yu no.

http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

------------------
for every question there's an answer. Then a load more questions.
Definition of Upgrade "A means of introducing new bugs to a program to replace the ones that you have eventually found fixes for"

Regards..,
Vic.

[ErnieK]

One word describes modern speak "GOBBLEDIGOOK" now ain't that a nice old fashioned word? Heard another new word today. "...but I am not computerit" I can only assume that he meant computer literate.

------------------
Ernie

[mjc]

OK.....

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[BigBlue66]

LMAO, Vic! Good one! Hehehehe

I never expected this thread to continue like this! This is great. My bad for not thinking of posting it sooner. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif


------------------
This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"We all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[steveo]

"Whatever" is my nemisis

I've grown to hate this expression. For a while there it seemed everybody replied to any statement I would make with..."whatever".

me: I heard it's going to rain tonight...
them: whatever

me: I'm afraid of global thermal nuclear war...
them: whatever

me: I don't think you should be eating yellow snow...
them: whatever

me: I should've taken that tumble in the hay with mary-lou back in '85
them: whatever

me: in hindsight I was wrong...
them: whatever

me: that person has impacted my life in a positive way...
them: whatever

me: you owe me money...
them: whatever

absolutetly drives me nuts to hear this shallow reply which means nothing

[ranchdog]

go figure..... Now there's a real one.

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....How long is a minute... depends on which side of the Bathroom door you're on. ......
..........

[BigBlue66]

Oh, how about the one where you tell somebody something that is common knowledge, or something else that they already know. And they reply, "So what else is new?" Say what?! It's not new, it's old, for cripes sakes.

------------------
This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"We all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[Whyzman]

"No big deal!"

"For sure!"

"Right on!"

"Gnarly Dude!"

"Correct me if I'm wrong!"



------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[kayofcircles]

Hope I am still allowed to use "LOL, Vic!" http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

I have to add that for many years, I thought that you guys on the other side of the pond were so very proper! Slightly "stuffy", truthfully, but not as rowdy as us Americans, don't you know? Recent months have been a real eye opener for me. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif

[Pianorak]

Kay Stuffy? Us? Me, yeah, I don't get it. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/confused.gif

<<. . . Recent months have been a real eye opener for me. >>
Right on! Whatever! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/redface.gif



------------------
Grigory Sokolov, a pianist of extraordinary talent . . .

[iisbob]

Two " common " slang terms i've seen used quite frequently in some of our younger IT crew, i find VERY offensive.

Both the B**ch and N**ger terms are NOT proper in ANY context, wether meant as a " good " comment or just to express oneself.

Especially to hear them call each other by these terms as if they were " endearing " is enough for me to lose my cool. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/mad.gif

Generally i'm pretty casual about work relationship's, but i put my foot down when it comes to such derogatory comments as these ( among some others ), and i will/do come down like a " ..Ton of bricks..." on the perpetrator!

I was always told that you'll be judged by your speech.



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iisbob

"It is by the fortune of God that, in this country, we have three benefits: freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and the wisdom never to use either."
-Mark Twain { Samuel Clemen's }

[Steve]

What an interesting turn this thread has taken.

I'm right with you iisbob. I've been working construction for the past two years and have heard both, along with c**t, s**c and any number of others. Anyone using these terms gets a very cold response from me. What really gets me is hearing these terms from the related gender and nationality. I just don't get it.

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Peace and Love, brothers and sisters. Peace and Love

[Vic 970]

Right on pianorak where does that kay http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif get her ideas from, what. just because we have to keep up apearances, don't you know, I mean living in the rural belt of the cheshire plain, what. well one has to show (as well as know) ones place, hey. tut, tut..... http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif

http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif


iisbob & steve workers are one thing, but you aught to hear some of the (young ) kids that pass the back of my house (other side of an 8 foot wall) & the things that they come out with (makes my wife cringe) often they're with their parents too. I try to turn a deaf ear, but it does make me cringe... http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/mad.gif

------------------
for every question there's an answer. Then a load more questions.
Definition of Upgrade "A means of introducing new bugs to a program to replace the ones that you have eventually found fixes for"

Regards..,
Vic.

[This message has been edited by Vic 970 (edited 03-01-2002).]

[Whyzman]

Years ago I worked in a warehouse whilst furthering my education. One of the dock workers had a propensity to include the "F" word with nearly every other word that came from his mouth! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif

One day, an over-the-road trucker who was docked and waiting for his truck to be unloaded caught an earful of our resident linguist. The 6'5" ponytailed "Born to Raise Hell" tatooed trucker http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif calmly walked over to our budding orator and said: "I used to talk just like you, "F" this and "F" that. And one day someone came up to me just like I am you and said, "Profanity is a weak mind trying to express itself forcefully!" Think about it!"

This scenario certainly invited me to take note of my choice of vocabulary! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[hiredgoonz]

On the other hand, the "F-word" is the most flexible word in our language. It can be used as any part of speech, including one that is unique in modern, american-english...it is an "infix" (like a prefix or suffix) It can be used in the middle of a word. As in unf***ingbelievable...

Words really only have the power and meaning that you give them. I try not to put too much stock in language...

------------------
When all else fails, read the instructions.

Microsoft Knowledge Base (http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;rid;kbinfo)

Google (http://www.google.com)

[Donna]

Whyzman, May I use that qoute? Might give a guy at another forum I go to a hint!!!Even tho the wors are ***** out, You still get the jist of what he is saying!

[This message has been edited by Donna (edited 03-01-2002).]

[Gallaeglagh]

Originally posted by Whyzman:
Y"Profanity is a weak mind trying to express itself forcefully!"[/b] Think about it!"

This scenario certainly invited me to take note of my choice of vocabulary! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif



In this case I agree with you, however its my feeling that if you only seldomly use 4 letter words that they actually have some meaning and force. The person that always says f**k this and sc**w that sounds foolish. I've heard it all before but when its unexpected it usually means that a normal person is quite p o'ed.



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All the king's HORSES and all the king's men? Are you kidding me? No wonder they couldn't put Humpty together again. Just what did those idiots expect the horses to do, anyway? - Jerry Seinfeld

[yawningdog]

My biggest pet peeve (excepting vulgarity) has to be acronyms.

LOL
LMAO
IMHO

I never use these. I believe them to be the epitome of laziness. I also detest the misuse and non-use of capitalization and punctuation for the same reason. Mistakes are okay, but laziness makes me crazy.

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Linux- Because you wouldn't buy a car with the hood welded shut, why should your O.S. be different?

[Pianorak]

The F-word. <<. . . It can be used in the middle of a word. As in unf***ingbelievable...>>

Correct me if I am wrong but I don't think that one has crossed the Atlantic as yet - but won't be long now. Keep reading the tabloids (and nowadays that includes The Times). http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif


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Grigory Sokolov, a pianist of extraordinary talent . . .

[Whyzman]

Gallaeglagh,

I would certainly agree with your observation! In the right context the use of an expletive can be quite effective...especially when used by someone who normally refrains from their use.

In the hands of a comedic master an expletive placed with precision can tickle the funny bone! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

My co-worker on the dock was certainly on "over-kill" and unfortunately defined him in terms of any upward mobility in the company. Even right now as I am reminiscing I'm chuckling with this picture of him making a sales presentation! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Now don't get me wrong...this dock dude definitely possessed a skill that just needed proper direction. As HG pointed out above, the "F" word is probably the most "elastic" word in the English vocabulary. This guy's speech was a living testimony to that effect. In his hands the word became a noun, pronoun, adjective, verb, adverb, preposition, and proposition, all within one sentence!

"Infix?" Oh yeah! His creativity with the word was unparalleled! More than once I stood slack-jawed, as he with surgeon like precision, began a sentence with, added to, infused, subtracted from, and ultimately landed upon the "F" word with out the slightest hesitation!

I'm very thankful that he was not a contributor to our Constitution or the Preamble...Oh, my! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Pianorak, Oh great, we're already barbaric because we eat chicken with our fingers...and we'll prove once again how we "slaughter" the English language! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!


[This message has been edited by Whyzman (edited 03-02-2002).]

[kayofcircles]

I agree that the way we talk defines us, in a sense, as does how we write. Misspelling words doesn't imply anything to me, but if one cannot communicate their "intelligence" or knowledge, then what good is it to have the intelligence in the first place?

I also agree that some words have their place and time. When I was in my young and rebellious period, the F word was one of my favorites..sigh. But now, the only time I use that word is when I have gone well beyond irritation into anger. Sort of a "watch out..I am rampaging" signal.

yawningdog: Will you not consider leaving me "lol"? Yes, it is a sign of laziness, but you may have noticed that I, for one, also have considerable difficulty with conciseness. I struggle to be succinct as it is, and feel that whatever shorthand I can get my hands on is probably a good thing in my case.

As long as everyone is listing the stuff that makes them cringe..mine is the "g d" stuff. Don't mind the d part, but the g part I just cannot handle. Have to leave the room if find myself with someone who sprinkles that word throughout their speech.

[Pianorak]

Whyzman Oh dear, I should have counted to ten before posting. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/redface.gif
As a matter of fact I was thoroughly transfixed by this "infix" which in my ignorance I hadn't come across before.
Far from "slaughtering" the English language Americans are, and have been for some time, in the forefront of linguistics and semantics, to wit Noam Chomsky, Zellig Harris and a host of others. If that's "slaughter", well, don't let me stop you. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

As to using one's fingers to eat chicken: doesn't everybody? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/confused.gif


------------------
Grigory Sokolov, a pianist of extraordinary talent . . .

[hiredgoonz]

The "infix" is used in other languages, but in English it's just the one word...and most people don't see its use as a sign of linguistic skill...

------------------
When all else fails, read the instructions.

Microsoft Knowledge Base (http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;rid;kbinfo)

Google (http://www.google.com)

[BigBlue66]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by kayofcircles:
but if one cannot communicate their "intelligence" or knowledge, then what good is it to have the intelligence in the first place?[QUOTE]

Absolutely agree, Kay. That's the very reason most if not all hiring managers measure how well a person communicates their intelligence and/or knowledge, both verbally and in the written word, when considering that applicant for a position. You can't be in the higher echelon of a business without being able to talk and write effectively. And, if you somehow manage to land in one of those positions without enjoying the ability to communicate, your tenure will be shortlived.

That's not to say, however, that the truckdriver or the dock worker does not possess these traits. Far from it. It all depends on what a person decides they enjoy in this life. Intelligence has nothing to do with it.

I was driving semi-tractor trailer when I was told I had paperwork savvy. Hmmm, Ok, so I thought maybe I would try my hand at a desk job. It's been fifteen years now, and I still get a feeling of nostalgia when I pass a Kenworth on the highway. Desk jobs are not all they're cracked up to be, especially if you enjoy variety in your life. It wouldn't take much for me to toss all this education out the door and hop behind the wheel again.

Wow, where did that come from? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/redface.gif

------------------
This space reserved for highly intelligent observations and witty remarks.

"After the wedding, we all went up to the conception room and had a big time up there"
-------- Tommy Smothers

[Whyzman]

BB,

That's not to say, however, that the truckdriver or the dock worker does not possess these traits. Far from it.


I was impressed with, not only how the truck driver approached the dock worker that day, as his attitude was not demeaning or berating. It seemed obvious to me that when the quoted words were spoken to him, he must have accessed the image his intelligence was projecting and took it to heart. But also, he displayed genuine concern for another. Definitely some admirable traits!

The dock worker also had a lot to offer...it was unfortunately lost in his choice of diction! He was friendly, outgoing, had a great sense of humor, a hard worker, and intelligent. He definitely presented a literal language barrier! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif It was difficult for most to spend much time in his immediate presence. Fortunately, the docks were a noisy place and ear plugs were company issue! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

There's another ingredient in this language issue that is often overlooked...deference. Many things in life are "lawful" yet not necessarily "expedient!" Perhaps it is within this venue where intelligence (knowing my rights) meets wisdom (is this the right time and place!? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

BB, sounds to me like you need to scratch that itch every now and then! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/tongue.gif I realize it pales by comparison, but there's a video game at the arcade my son has played called "18 Wheeler"..... http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

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May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[kayofcircles]

One can battle "what is" only so far. It would be nice if people were not ever judged by their appearance, or by their speech, but that's not the reality of the society we live in. It is normal and typical adolescent behavior to dress and act rebelliously, but one is "expected" at some point to settle down and dress/behave in a more accepted fashion. It pleases me, truthfully, that we're lightening up on dress codes some now where one is not always required to wear a suit or whatever was considered proper in the past, but most of the traditional stuff still applies. (What I don't "get" is the piercing of body parts..like nose rings. eeww!)

I did not mean to imply lack of intelligence by any means. But I did spend some time early in my marriage correcting my husband's grammar for awhile because he is more intelligent than I am, but was raised in an area of the country where correct grammar far from the norm, and it seemed like he was indicating lack of intelligence and education to those who didn't know him.

BB: I think it is a sign of intelligence and maturity on your part to feel some regret on things left behind..and "the road not taken". I don't have many regrets, but wonder sometimes if I am becoming too cynical and do miss the days of innocence.

[pentachris]

I work in customer service for a local utility, fielding phone calls from every social, economic, and education level of the general public. I go through language pet peeves like I go through socks. A big one right now is "how do I go about that?" Let me give you an example:

customer: "I'll be moving to Birmingham next month. How do I go about that?"

What they mean is "what steps do I need to take to transfer my service [or establish new service] when I move to Birmingham next month?" What I want to say after hearing their question is "First, you're going to need a lot of boxes..."

My major annoyance, though, isn't what our customers say, but what they think they ought to say. Example:

me: What is your name, ma'am?
customer: It'll be John W. Smith.

This is where I want to reply:

me: OK, you're planning a sex change operation, and your name will be John W. Smith. That's fine. What is your name now, ma'am, so that I'll know how to refer to you until your operation?

Of course, what they mean is:

customer: My name is Jane Jones, but the account is in the John W. Smith's name.

Another every day example...

me: How can I help you?
customer: My power is out.
me: At what address?
customer: My address is PO Box 1234
me: I need the address where the power is out, sir.
customer: I told you, I get [or, better yet, "I gets"] my mail at PO Box 1234.

My frustration grows...


------------------
Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

[This message has been edited by pentachris (edited 03-04-2002).]

[This message has been edited by pentachris (edited 03-04-2002).]

[This message has been edited by pentachris (edited 03-04-2002).]

[Vic 970]

on a building site

(from the roof)

"Hey Mick, what time is it down there ?"

(from the ground)

"Same time as it is up there Paddy."


http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif LOL http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif
------------------
for every question there's an answer. Then a load more questions.
Definition of Upgrade "A means of introducing new bugs to a program to replace the ones that you have eventually found fixes for"

Regards..,
Vic. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

[This message has been edited by Vic 970 (edited 03-04-2002).]

[kayofcircles]

pentachris: A fellow sufferer! My husband manages a small propane plant and is on call all the time...sigh. Call this weekend:
Lady: "I have no hot water."
Husband: "Do you have propane in your tank?"
Lady: "Yes, I got a delivery a week ago."
Husband: "Is the water heater turned on?"
Lady: "Yes, but there's no water coming out of the pipes."
Husband: "No water at all?"
Lady: "No."
Husband: "Sounds like your pipes are frozen."
Lady: "So, what do I do?"
Husband: "Wait until the pipes thaw. Call me back if you get water, but still don't have hot water. And you might want to consider having a plumber work on insulating your pipes."

We also got a bunch of calls this weekend of this sort..which has all of the guys at the plant yanking their hair out by the roots. "I am out of gas. I noticed I was low last week, but thought I could make it." Until when??? They call after hours with that same..er..stuff enough to drive us all nuts.

[John0904]

pentachris wrote:

me: How can I help you?
customer: My power is out.
me: At what address?
customer: My address is PO Box 1234
me: I need the address where the power is out, sir.
customer: I told you, I get [or, better yet, "I gets"] my mail at PO Box 1234.


LOL.
I presume you ask how many people are living in that PO box. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[mjc]

If you are really interested in those kind of language errors check out a series of books by Richard Lederer...the first book in the series is "Anguished English".

------------------
mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[ErnieK]

Can I step in and be the devils advocate?

Personally I never swear in front of kids or woman. Very rarely in other circumstances, usually only when I lose my rag (Get angry) I let go with a couple of f***s or B******s

But there are some people who through no fault of there own do have difficulties (mines is in retaining the written word - I can read but have difficulty at times putting meanings into what I read, and it is only since I got a computer that I have started to admit it, as I can hide behind inexperience when I ask a question. Again since trying to learn about computers I find that I am admitting it in other situations as well)
To give you an idea of just what this means. I have been tring to install MBM on my computer. I spent between 4-and 5 hours the other day trying to do this and eventually gave up (I will go back to it in a couple of days and try again until I succeed) because I could not decipher what are perfectly clear instructions, for others. And believe me there were a lot of F'n & B's(only me the dog here) I have never benchmarked my computer because I cannot understand how to read the graphs or do comparisons.

Now from my own experience there are a lot of people who ridicule those who cannot read and write properly. Not because they are stupid, but because they have a disabillity. Quite a lot of people in this position take on a defensive attitude of bravado due to shame or because we are\were consistantly told we were \ are thick. This usually comes out with foul language and or un-sociable behaviour. It also, at times , means we have difficuty in expressing ourselves. It is, at the beginning, used as a barrier against others. After all if all you notice is my foul mouth you will not notice my stupidity. Once in that habit it takes a lot to break it. I am not saying that this is an excuse for being foul mouthed but please stop to think of the reason behind the beginnings of behaviour like this.
Treat it like a car that is mis-firing. Don't just look and say "Oh Dear - My car is mis-firing" Try to find out the reason for the mis-fire.

I hope that no-one takes offence at my rant - (my defencivness). It is not meant to be offensive, it is only my experience. If I have offended anyone please accept my appoligies

------------------
Ernie

[iisbob]

I understand where you are coming from ErnieK; my sister in law is a partial deaf mute-physical a stunningly beautiful young woman, but as soon as a guy finds out about her disability-he freaks out.

So much for maturity in my fellow man. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif

However, she has demostrated an absolute Genius in the programming field. She's showed me things i'd never figured out in over 20 years of PC use! And to beat all she's only 23!

She has displayed a wit and humour equal to my wifes', ( one of the reason's i was so agreeable to be caught by my wife http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif ) yet because of her disability ( and the reactions she's endured )she's afraid to socialize.

Now i'm far from perfect, and to my shame in my younger days i used to make fun of disabled person's-now i know better.

Point i'm trying to make, is that i agree with you ErnieK that sometimes we inadvertantly cause pain to others thru our misconceptions, we are all guilty of making snap judgements on people by what we see/hear. It's just human nature. I think that's the point of civilization; to enable us to see beyond the animal to the human soul underneath.

But i still think that anyone who uses an excessive amount of profanity is a rude, crude, Dumba*s. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif



------------------
iisbob

"It is by the fortune of God that, in this country, we have three benefits: freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and the wisdom never to use either."
-Mark Twain { Samuel Clemen's }

[kayofcircles]

What you're saying, ErnieK, is one very important reason why I love the Web. One cannot make judgments based on silly preconceptions here, because we can't "see" each other except in print. (Which is a good thing for you because here I sit with my morning coffee, in my robe, no "face" on, uncombed hair...SCARY!) I am not ready to come out of my closet, but let me just say that I have personal experience with this, and there are people who can get past their preconceptions and those who just never can, and isn't worth the effort to try and change the latter. Either, as a person matures, they learn and grow...or they don't.

"Perfectly clear instructions" are not always what they're cracked up to be anyway. Went and got a driver for a monitor from the manufacturer, followed their installation instructions to the letter, puter kept coming back with "I can't find no stinkin' driver there" message over and over until I gave up. With puters, think you're always allowed to say, "Okay, that didn't work. Got a Plan B instruction?"

I do have one small fuss. I know that for centuries ships have been "female"..so some small justification..but why is it that whenever my beloved is having problems with cars or puters or pipes (or anything giving him problems), it becomes female??? I hear all these muttered "Oh, you b****!" comments. As a female, I am just curious.

[Ghost_Hacker]

An object that a guy owns is always refered to in female terms.
(Few guys want to own anything "male" unless it's a wild animal.)A more politically correct guy would say that a highly desirable object is always refered to in female terms.


Anyway when said object doesn't give us what we want or causes us headaches, it becomes a ......


That's how I always explained it.....

[YODA74]

IT's a Male thing. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

------------------
Death has come to our windows.

-- Jeremiah 9:21
(undoubtedly a Biblical reference to a Microsoft product!)

YODA74@carolina.rr.com

[ErnieK]

Kay
The reason we call cars and the likes SHE is because all of these things are to be treasured, just like a good woman. Or in my case ANY woman http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Iisobob - I agree with you even after my last post into account. It shows a lack of respect, for ones self, and others
------------------
Ernie

[This message has been edited by ErnieK (edited 03-06-2002).]

[Gallaeglagh]

Originally posted by pentachris:
I work in customer service for a local utility, fielding phone calls from every social, economic, and education level of the general public. I go through language pet peeves like I go through socks.



I also answer customer service calls and I've found that when you get questions asked that are phrased improperly but you know where they're going just ask a simple follow up question heading in the right direction. If you're thinking up answers to their poorly worded question you're wasting yours and the customers time.



------------------
All the king's HORSES and all the king's men? Are you kidding me? No wonder they couldn't put Humpty together again. Just what did those idiots expect the horses to do, anyway? - Jerry Seinfeld

[Whyzman]

What I always find interesting are the questions that are never asked! Laden with qualifiers, they circle, barrel roll, flit, drag out extensively, invite extreme patience on behalf of the hearer, and when completed, beg the question...what was your question?

Example: (Actual question is can I go to the bathroom?)

Hand up: Hand raises
Me: Yes
Hand up: Excuse me, I hate to bother you. I realize that you're right in the middle of a very extensive presentation regarding the differences between a left and right hand door. However, at this particular time, and given that this is really something that we all should have in our repertoire, when one becomes uncomfortable, uncomfortable being the operative word here, putting things in the realm of possible, although, not possible in the sense of being difficult, but rather in the sense of permission, and the force of pressure being what it is, it would be in the interest of pressure removal I have my hand up at this time.

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[This message has been edited by Whyzman (edited 03-06-2002).]

[mjc]

Ummm, Whyzman, I didn't know that discussions about door-handedness were part of law school....

------------------
mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[kayofcircles]

"Highly desirable" and "treasured", huh? Who says that you guys haven't mastered PC? (As in politically correct, not personal computer..but in your cases, both!)

Whyzman: Still laughing here over the above.. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[Whyzman]

mjc, Doorhandedness is indeed left right where it belongs, an open and shut case. Hinging ever so delicately you'd think there was a catch...but read on and learn the art of questioning from the legal eagles...

Q: You forget. Can you give us an example of something that you've
forgotten?
------------------------------------------------

Q: What gear were you in at the moment of the impact?

A: Gucci sweats and Reeboks.
------------------------------------------------

Q: Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice
which I sent to your attorney?

A: No, this is how I dress when I go to work.
------------------------------------------------

Q: All your responses must be oral, OK? What school did you go to?

A: Oral.
------------------------------------------------

Kay? Are you alright!? http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[kayofcircles]

Starting another day with big sloppy grin on face, Whyzman. Thanks!

We've covered many pet peeves here, so think I will throw one of mine in too. I do logic puzzles for fun, and so have learned to really listen to what is said for "clues"..and it's annoying how often people are so vague in speech or writing. If you really listen to most politicians, they don't "say" anything. Qualifiers like "may" and "should" and "might" all over their speech. By the time they get to the fifth or sixth "might" based on previous "maybes"..speech is meaningless. So, I tend to rather favor the ones who answer the literal question as opposed to the "meant" one.

[mjc]

A bus load of state politicians was going to a weekend get-away at a fancy resort in a remote part of the state, when the bus crashed. Killing many onboard. When investigators arrived on the scene, they noticed a large grave in a field. They asked the farmer who owned the field what had happened and if all the politicians had died in the crash.

The farmer replied "Well, I asked them and they said no, but you know how they all lie....."

------------------
mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.dreamwater.org/tech/mjc/index.htm)

Celts are the men that heaven made mad, For all their battles are merry and their songs are all sad.

[Pianorak]

Kay << . . .I tend to rather favor the ones who answer the literal question as opposed to the "meant" one.>>

I am absolutely gobsmacked. Are you saying you have come across a politician who has answered a question unequivocally? If so, surely that's a case for the Guinness Book of Records.


------------------
Our minds never work so fast as when they have to find an excuse J.L.H. Thomas

[Vic 970]

one of the staff at the care centre were getting the coats out for their 'elderly clients, and asked one, "what did you come in today ? "

"A big white bus !" came the reply.

----------------
then yesterday having taken a 96 year old lady to her home, and finding that she had no key, I asked "Does your neighbour have a key ? " "Yes." she said. I was just about to nip around to the neighbours when she continued, "But it doesn't fit my door. "
----------------
absolutely correct !!! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

------------------
for every question there's an answer. Then a load more questions.
Definition of Upgrade "A means of introducing new bugs to a program to replace the ones that you have eventually found fixes for"

Regards..,
Vic.

[Whyzman]

Well, it seems we've definitely figured out why most politicians started out as attorneys with a minor in cosmetology! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Doublespeak...mjc, so have you stopped beating your wife yet!? Try answering a presupposition with a yes or no! But, I don't beat my wife!! Just answer yes or no! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

This one was good:

Farmer had a trailer hooked up with his favorite donkey in tow. Coming around a corner he had to take the ditch due to an oncoming car passing in his lane. Trailer and donkey wound up on one side of the road and the truck and farmer on the other.

Case goes to court:

Attorney: Did you or did you not state to the Officer that you were
all right following the accident?

Farmer: Well sir the trailer...

Attorney: Please answer the question! Did you or did you not state to the
Officer that you were all right following the accident?

Farmer: Well sir the trailer...

Attorney: Your honor please instruct the Farmer to answer the
question! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/mad.gif

Judge: Mr. Farmer, what seems to be the problem with answering the
Defense's question with a simple yes or no?

Farmer: Well, Your Honor, the Police arrived almost immediately after
the accident. The trailer and my donkey were on one side of
the road and I was on the other. One of the officers
approached me from the side my trailer and donkey were on and
informed me that my donkey was in such bad shape that he had
to put her out of her misery. He then asked me if I was
all right?

------------------
May all your dealings in life be win/win!


Whyzman
----------------------
Reserved for Punishing Humor...A Pessimist's blood is always B-negative!

[Pianorak]

<<Doublespeak...mjc, so have you stopped beating your wife yet!? Try answering a presupposition with a yes or no! But, I don't beat my wife!! Just answer yes or no!>>

Whyzman This may be a presupposition but it is also a leading question. But aren't leading questions disallowed in a Court of Law?
http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/confused.gif

------------------
Our minds never work so fast as when they have to find an excuse J.L.H. Thomas

[kayofcircles]

A road sign in the canyon (Interstate 40) between here and Albuquerque reads: "Gusty winds may exist". Natives know that sign translates to "Warning: On a windy day, unplanned lane changes do occur in this area," but I have often wondered what tourists make of that sign. Sort of begs the question of "may exist where?"