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Language Protectionism
Language's ability to overcome its geographical borders is a phenomenon that no longer surprises us. The combination of satellite communications and, more recently, widespread access to internet by the mainstream public has made a multitude of media available and given more purpose to language skills acquisition. English is the de facto common language of this new media and the world has adjusted accordingly. For those that wish to study English London is no longer the only option either - a myriad English language schools have been set up around the world. In fact, if this trend continues, even the very best English schools London has to offer will have to come up with new ways of attracting overseas students.
Language is also used as a marketing tool for exports. Companies seek to make their products' appeal universal by encouraging other countries to incorporate words, phrases and idioms from their country's language via media exposure and product placement. The public's reaction to this globalisation of language (or language creep as it has often been called) varies from those who actively support it, to the ones that lobby for stricter protective measures.
Some countries, such as Argentina and Japan, are particularly lenient regarding the adoption of foreign words. The Japanese have made quite an art of absorbing foreign terms and using them incorrectly, making them their own. Countries such as France and Spain, on the other hand, are notorious for trying to preserve their own languages, relentlessly translating everything - sometimes with amusing consequences.
As for France, surely we all remember the case of Sebastien Tellier, the French musician, singer and composer, at the 2008 Eurovision Song Contest. The singer was elected to represent France, but the public was enraged when the song Divine, which has English lyrics, was selected as their entry. The controversy ran so high that, in the end, the French musician, who sings most of his songs in English, chose to translate some parts of the song.
When Translation Goes Wrong
Although we regularly come into contact with foreign words, brands and ideas, no one is exempt from making the odd gaffe. These translation errors can be nonsensical, funny and, sometimes, insulting. Here are some funny examples of what happens when translation goes wrong:
- Please avoid coca watering, cream cleaning, wet towels wrapping, and ironing drying
- The genuine antics in your room come from our family castle. Long life to it
From a Bed and Breakfast in France
- For your convenience, we recommend courageous, efficient self-service
Found in a Hong Kong Supermarket
- Besmear a backing pan, previously buttered with a good tomato sauce, and, after, dispose the cannelloni, lightly distanced between them in a only couch
Instructions on food packaging in Italy
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