| |
 |
Where and everywhere
|
Wu Yan
CHINESE people are famous for their modesty. In the Chinese language, there is a two-character phrase pronounced as nali. When somebody praises you, you may say: "Nali, nali", meaning you are not that good. Saying it shows that your head is not swelling.
Nali, when translated directly, can also mean "where" in Chinese.
Unlike the Chinese, many foreigners do not hide the fact that they are flattered by compliments. This attitude encourages some Chinese to spare no efforts in extolling their virtues.
Poor language proficiency, however, often leads to bizarre exchanges.
One day, an American couple went to meet one of their Chinese friends. After shaking hands, the Chinese told the American man: "Oh, you have a beautiful wife." The American man had learned some Chinese culture and some of the language as well. So he replied: "Nali, nali." While he said so, however, both his expression and pronunciation were not so much as he meant. And the Chinese took it as a question. So he gave a quick answer: "Oh, everywhere, everywhere, your wife's beautiful everywhere."
|
|
|
|
