Ever wonder about the kanji characters decorating some clothes, accessories, and the like? Do they say anything, or are they used strictly for appearances? I recently asked a native speaker, and she said that most of the time, what she saw did make sense and was usually some wish of prosperity or peace. (That’s “good fortune” at left.) She did say it used to be much more common that the kanji decorating these things would be nonsensical, like “umbrella apple” or something.
She is from Taiwan, and I also politely asked her thoughts on the possibility of war with China. This beautiful and soft-spoken woman looked me in the eye, even holding a slight smile, and said “We will fight to the death.” But that’s another post.
Now the Japanese love English words too, but seem to get it wrong frequently, and to hilarious effect. Sometimes it’s poor translation; sometimes it’s bad transliteration; and once in a while it seems to be direct from another plane of existence.
A fellow writer turned me on several years ago to Engrish.com, which showcases a lot of these gems. For example, don’t ever cram a bunch of “Baterries” in your mouth, lest they “make your mind damaged” or turn you into a river of blood:
And folks, if you thought TMX Elmo was tough to get for Christmas over here, imagine the trouble they’re having with this guy across the Pacific:
Tons more here, neatly categorized for your enjoyment. Do take some time with the site when you can; there are quite a few out-loud laughs therein.
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I think I crapped my hands laughing!
We had an Engrish calendar at my office last year and it was all kinds of funny. Now we have a less hilarious Jeopardy calendar. My job isn’t nearly as enjoyable in 2007 as it was in 2006.