The Chinese, like Americans, post many signs directing people how to act, where to go, and what to buy. When Chinese signs are presented with an English translation, things typically get skewed and twisted. At best, the English translation is imperfect and amusing and at worst it can be incomprehensible or even vulgar ! I have begun taking pictures when I come upon these uniquely translated signs.
The sign above being pointed at by my colleague Bill could not be clearer in its message, but it certainly makes you wonder what prompted the posting of the sign. Did an unsuspecting hotel guest get offed on this spot by a deadly snake ?
Translations in food menus can be equally perplexing or amusing. A business which provided English proof-reading services would be a great service to China. A few more fun examples are posted in blog entry #15a (I cannot figure out how to post the additional pictures at the bottom of this blog page).
The sign above being pointed at by my colleague Bill could not be clearer in its message, but it certainly makes you wonder what prompted the posting of the sign. Did an unsuspecting hotel guest get offed on this spot by a deadly snake ?
Translations in food menus can be equally perplexing or amusing. A business which provided English proof-reading services would be a great service to China. A few more fun examples are posted in blog entry #15a (I cannot figure out how to post the additional pictures at the bottom of this blog page).
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