We notice lots of little quirks every day related to the difficulty of translating French to English or vice versa. One of those seems to be that when a French person tries to translate a threat into English, it comes off kind of vague and extreme. I was reminded of this today when I received the following e-mail at work:
"Dear all,
The Security Section has been informed by the guards at the entrance to ITER HQ that over the last few weeks there have been several unsuccessful attempts of trespassing the site. We should like to remind you that it is imperative to inform the Security Section in advance if you need to access the ITER HQ out of working hours.
Please be informed that the site is guarded by dogs. Whoever tries to enter the premises without access permission could have to face severe consequences. We thank you for your understanding and attention."
It does send the imagination spinning to wonder what those severe consequences might be.
Another example I always find funny is the automated security message at the Marseille airport. It goes something like this:
"For your security, it is imperative that you keep your luggage with you at all times. Any unattended luggage will be identified by security and immediately destroyed."
I am seriously tempted, each time I fly, to bring with me an extra bag in order to watch it be "immediately destroyed". I bet that's pretty cool.
Plus, if someone did leave a bomb in an unattended bag, immediate destruction might not be the most prudent choice. Ahh, the French.
2 comments:
Just letting you know that I really enjoy reading your updates. They really bring a smile to me! -Dean
Oh man! I like that idea of the extra expendable bag! I think I almost woke my roommate up with how loud I was laughing. It seems like things are going alright for y'all. I'm enjoying your rocking chair, bookshelf, and desk a lot over here!
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