What Is Said But Not Meant （言不由衷）

The other day a friend of mine let me know that he had a wonderful business meeting with his prospective British customer. "Wonderful how?" I was curious. At lightning speed he cited the Briton's "encouraging" remarks which were remarkably discouraging if truth be told. Of course, I told him the truth. He is a good-sized adult. 

(B=Briton T=Truth A=American)

1.

B: With the greatest respect...

T: You are a dummy.

A: He is listening to me.

2.

B: That is a very valorous move.

T: You are insane. 

A: He thinks I have the guts.

3.

B: Oh, by the way...

T: It is very important for me to...

A: It is not very important for him to...

4.

B: Very interesting. 

T: That is clearly nonsense. 

A: He is impressed. 

5.

B: You must come for dinner. 

T: It isn't an invitation. I'm just being polite. 

A: I'll get an invitation soon. 

If an American could get a Briton so wrong, it's little wonder why China and Britain went to war with each other in 1839, when so much had been lost in translation. 

Author: Ren Qiulan