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Should we describe these local ladies as old people, aged people, elderly people, or elders? Is there a difference? Are they all correct?  Photo: SCMP
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If we think people may be unclear about what an object is for, or who are its intended users, we can tell them with a sign like this:  This clarifies for us the intended users. The expression ‘designed for…’ (or ‘designed to…’) is also used to clarify details of the intended use of a product, as in this example:
Recently, I came across two interesting uses of this expression ‘in Hong Kong, as follows.... Is this a step too far for Marks & Spencer? Read today's blog post to find out more about "getting set for an affair"!   Following on from my last post about English names, this week I want to remind readers of some of the basic differences between English and Chinese names, differences that affect the way you begin emails or letters.
Much of the contents of this Cygnet blog are about helping Hong Kong English users understand normal or standard English usage better, and use it in their own writing or speaking. But what about English names? Many (perhaps most) Hong Kong people who use English have an 'English name' in addition to their Chinese one. Are there any rules about choosing an English name? Are there names that are acceptable or unacceptable? Does it really matter what you call yourself?
Which of the following location statements is correct: the old Police Station at Hollywood Road, the old Police Station on Hollywood Road, or the old Police Station in Hollywood Road? If you're uncertain -- or haven't got a clue -- click on 'Read More' for today's blog post!   I have looked at this topic before in the Cygnet blog (http://www.cygnet.com.hk/blog/how-to-say-no), but it's worthwhile refreshing our thinking about this -- one of the most common examples of 'Hong Kong English' to be found around Hong Kong.
 This picture was recently sent to me, with some comments about the oddness of the English structure of the message. It certainly reads rather strangely, but what exactly is the problem?
 I spotted this sign the other day along Des Voeux Road West, announcing a new property development going up on the site. It looks like the developer asked a PR agency to develop a catchy name and slogan that would suggest a sense of classiness and prestige. Unfortunately, the PR agency's attempts have failed completely! But why?
Members must log on to verify their account within 7 days after receiving their new PIN." So, what's wrong with this commonly-used Hong Kong time expression? Today's blog post offers some insights into how the word 'within' works in English….  |
About this blogThis blog arises from keeping an eye on English in Hong Kong. I often use signs, notices and advertisements that I see as starting points to write about English issues that commonly challenge Hong Kong writers. Archives
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