British sarcasm 'lost on Americans' - reports BBC

Something for the weekend, sir. I think you will agree, it’s not bad.

An interesting YouGov report at https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-46846467 - not sure if this will be viewable outside the UK but it would be quite handy if it was.

What the British say What the British mean What others understand
I hear what you say I disagree and do not want to discuss it further He accepts my point of view
With the greatest respect… I think you are an idiot He is listening to me
That’s not bad That’s good That’s poor
That is a very brave proposal You are insane He thinks I have courage
Quite good A bit disappointing Quite good
I would suggest… Do it or be prepared to justify yourself Think about the idea, but do what you like
Oh, incidentally/by the way The primary purpose of our discussion is… That is not very important
I was a bit disappointed that I am annoyed that It doesn’t really matter
Very interesting That is clearly nonsense They are impressed
I’ll bear it in mind I’ve forgotten it already They will probably do it
I’m sure it’s my fault It’s your fault Why do they think it was their fault?
You must come for dinner It’s not an invitation, I’m just being polite I will get an invitation soon
I almost agree I don’t agree at all He’s not far from agreement
I only have a few minor comments Please re-write completely He has found a few typos
Could we consider some other options? I don’t like your idea They have not yet decided
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Brilliant. I must have missed that one. The thing is that this is just the top level obvious stuff and when you get down into the sub levels of Roger Mellies Profanisaurus or Derek & Clive, there must be a very little clear communication.

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Very interesting… By the way, I hear what you say, but since English is not my native language, with the greatest respect, I would suggest that you take my words at the face value… ;-)

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