A matter of language??

[Maria]

Today I read that the UK Prime Minster, Gordon Brown, said he had "no truck with anti-Americanism" in the UK or anywhere else. I think that means that he didn't tolerate all the anti-American talk. (DAVE how do you use truck?)

I thought his words were interesting; as everything else I have read is that he was putting distance between the US government and his. Of course, IMO, our two countries have much in common and are partners in many areas. But then I am a novice in political worlds.

[Dabbit]

Well I've not heard thatone Maria! but then he is Scottish and they have a language of their own sometimes...Anyway I had read reports that he wanted to keep our two governments seperate and the 'close bond' we have wasn't important. And then yesterday on the news a report saying he wants to maintain the 'special relationship' that Britain has with the USA

[Mark]

In this sense, the word 'truck' means 'dealings', so I think he is saying, if you are quoting the 'Brown-speak' accurately, is that he'll not sail in the same boat as the anti-American segment, but won't exactly steer a course in tandem with America exactly either, if you'll pardon the metaphor - sort of implying the 'pond' between allies is more of a 'gulf' between two countries. Anyway, that's my humble opinion, and having dealt for a long time in such diplomatic matters I think he is trying to keep a delicate balance. He should be wary, however, IMHO, of setting the Atlantic roiling with too much of a Brownian Movement, which could upset proper steerage of a ship of state, and yes, the double entendre was intended.

[Maria]

Double entendre -- YOU? Never. LOL

[Mark]

;D Who me?

[meme]

Speaking of language Have you noticed that "um" has become a word in (American) English? Evidently it has to open or begin a sentence. Especially if one is answering a question. Drives me crazy. I don't know how people learn English as their "second" language now. Not if they just listen to other people. My great-grandparents spoke French but my grandmother and her siblings learned "proper" English somehow. (Not in a special course in school).
And speaking of British/American relationships - I, for one, want to keep that very friendly. I am 11th generation descendant (on my father's side)of a man who came from England. (1640's. Their farm was not big enough to support 5 sons). And generally, we do still speak the same lanquage here. Officially, anyway.
Also, on my mother's side, one of my great-grandfather's was born in Ireland. So if I can be half English, 1/4 Irish, and 1/4 French, why can't we all get along?

[Mark]

Great points, Meme. I hate such oral blemishes as well. I think 'um' is sort of a crutch while gathering their thoughts, or perhaps to drag their concentration to the fore and realize what it is that you've just said while they were only pretending to be paying attention beforehand. At least, that's what I think. I suspect anyone who takes too long to respond.

And as for mixed heritage, I am mostly English, but with some French and Native American thrown into the mix. Always had mixed emotions when watching Western movies.... ;D