What Mean?: Where Russians Go Wrong in English

by Lynn Visson

Overview

As Lynn Visson explores in this fascinating book, sometimes simply knowing a language is not enough to ensure good communication. Speaking a language without understanding the culture in which it is spoken can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication. WHAT MEAN? explores the problems of language and culture facing both Russians speaking English and Americans speaking Russian. An introduction to the basic issues of the link between language and culture is followed by a discussion of the reasons for some common errors in Russian and English. Numerous practical examples help readers understand the importance of cultural markers and signposts in both languages.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780781813228
Publisher:	Hippocrene Books, Inc.
Publication date:	11/01/2013
Pages:	152
Product dimensions:	5.30(w) x 8.40(h) x 0.40(d)

Table of Contents

Preface vii

Chapter 1 Introduction: Language and Culture 1

Chapter 2 Think Positive 11

Chapter 3 Think Negative 25

Chapter 4 Think Active or Passive? 45

Chapter 5 Etiquette and Behavior 57

Chapter 6 The Time Is Out of Joint 89

Chapter 7 The Art of Eating 99

Chapter 8 English - A Linguistic Headache 111

Chapter 9 Nonverbal Language 133

Endnotes 145