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What they said...
and what they meant

 
Participants in IDEELS simulations come from different countries, cultures, and academic disciplines; even though we use a common language to communicate during an IDEELS simulation, our own cultural conditioning affects both the way we use that language and the way we interpret what others say and write in that language.

Here is a list of authentic statements found on signs, in newsletters, and in advertisements. In each case, it is safe to assume that what the writer intended to communicate is different from what was actually said. Decide what the writer intended to express, how this message might have been more effectively expressed, and what about it might lead to "mis-communication" and misunderstanding.

Print out this table and complete it with a partner. Compare your interpretations and answers with those of your other teammates.

What they said... What the problem is... What they meant
to express...		 What they should have said...
Used cars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated? Come here first!      
Auto repair service: Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once, you'll never go anywhere again.      
Dinner special: turkey $2.35, chicken or beef $2.25, children $2.00.      
For sale: an antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.      
Four-poster bed, 101 years old. Perfect for antique lover.      
We do not tear your clothing with machinery. We do it carefully by hand.      
Mt. Kilimanjaro, the breathtaking backdrop for the Serena Lodge. Swim in the lovely pool while you drink it all in.      
Toaster: a gift that every member of the family appreciates. Automatically burns toast.      
Don't let worry kill you. Let the church help.      
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.      
This afternoon there will be a meeting in the South and North Ends of the church. Children will be baptized at both ends.      
Wednesday the ladies liturgy will meet. Mrs. Johnson will sing "Put me in my little bed" accompanied by the pastor.      
This being Easter Sunday, we will ask Mrs. Lewis to come forward and lay an egg on the altar.      
Tired of cleaning yourself? Let me do it.      
Next Sunday a special collection will be taken to defray the cost of the new carpet. All those wishing to do something on the new carpet will come forward and do so.      
Man, honest. Will take anything.      
The friendly behaviour of the teachers helped the shy persons to be opened.      
Have several very old dresses from grandmother in beautiful condition.      
Now is your chance to get your ears pierced and take home an extra pair, too.      

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