Niin, ja se kielimuuri

From a magazine for expatriates called Culturama. And believe it or not, the following is not that far-fetched…

“A British manager realized he had to learn to readjust his linguistic practices while in India. Wanting a photocopy of a document when his secretary was out for a lunch, he called in the office assistant to help.

-         Do you have a lot of to do now, or would you mind terrible making me a copy, Raja? (18 words) he asked of Raja, the office assistant. Raja looked blank.

-         Again sir, please, Raja said tentatively.

-         Oh I´m sorry. I just asked if it would be okay for you to please make a copy of the meeting notes? (22words) the manager repeated.

-         Why sorry, sir? Nothing wrong! Raja exclaimed in horror, latching on to the word `sorry.

-         No, no, nothing wrong, I just wanted a copy. But don´t bother. Let Mary (the secretary) come back from her lunch.

-         Madam Mary gone lunch, sir. I help sir, smiled Raja.

-         Yes – one copy please. (4 words and wave of the paper)

-         Of sir want copy?

-         Yes, that is what I was wondering.

-         Sir?

-         Copy, please.

-         Copy wanting?

-         Yes, copy. Please. (3 words)

And off Raja dashed down the corridor to come back in a jiffy with the copy in his hand!"