Monday, October 06, 2008

Pronunciation

I have a bit of an interest in linguistics (read that as total obsession!). I am particularly interested in mispronunciations, malapropisms, etc. A few which have caught my attention in recent times include:

...heard on a weather report...
"There will be smelly fog in Newcastle"

Deciphered as:
"There will be some early fog in Newcastle"


...heard prior to a morning traffic report...
"News up next after we check your underwear."

Deciphered as:
"News up next after we check your run to work."

...heard in conversation...
"There is a lot of iniquity in the education system"

Deciphered as:
"There is a lot of inequity in the education system"

...heard over PA system in Auckland Airport...
"Would Mr Anderson please report to the chicken counter?"

Deciphered as:
"Would Mr Anderson please report to the check-in counter?"

Honestly, people! ENUNCIATE! A bit of diction goes a long way!

Mind you, if it weren't for such little foibles as these, what would I have to write or laugh about?

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