Brandon wrote (in part):
> Message: 16
> Date: Tue, 29 Oct 2002 19:50:11 -0800
> From: Brandon Ives <monkeylad@mac.com>
> To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
> Subject: [CR]Pronunciation
>
> Since I'm being so damn contrarian this evening I figure I'll add one
> more. The problem with the whole debate about pronunciation is
> language is quite flexible. Many of the bike companies we discuss here
> are named after families and one of interesting things about family
> names is that don't always follow simple grammatical rules. One of the
> first rules you learn in any language class is that it's not as
> important to get the word exactly right but to make yourself
> understood......
>
<snip>
It sounds like you've never worked with the French!
I love 'em, but IME they will understand your question, correct your grammar, and then answer your question (in that order...).
They say (and I agree) that it takes a year to learn the rules of the French language, and a lifetime to learn the exceptions!
I was once asked (in French, bien sur) by a Parisian cabbie "you're English, right?" I took it as a compliment.....
Seriously, though, learning a Foreign language and using/pronouncing it as correctly/properly as possible when you interact with native-speakers, combined with learing about the culture of that particular country or region, shows a level of cultural sensitivity that is often seriously lacking in us "ugly Americans." I have found that if you make an effort, it will be greatly appreciated in most places around the world.
I do concur that the main point is to communicate well, however.....
A bientot,
Gregoire Parker
A2 MI USA