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0 pointsdahfizz4y ago0 comments

The fact that you need 25 years of cultural background to understand what Guten Morgen means is the whole point. You could similarly explain why Americans asking "how are you" is not a real question; the whole point is that the culture differs from the literal phrase, which makes it difficult for non-native speakers.

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Merem4y ago

Not sure why you downvote me for explaining why the language used by an old woman is not indicative of how things are today (or have been for a while even). (Though, in her case, in kmarc's example, the usage of the longform makes sense regardless.) Apart from that, we discussed German terms, not American ones. And, as explained, in German the discussed greetings are actually taken rather literally. At least I believe giving some very small insight into a culture is actually useful but apparently you disagree.

corty4y ago

Taken literally? Well, then for "Grüss Gott" I would have to literally believe in god, then die and be lucky enough to go to heaven and greet god there (provided I'd get an audience). I think greetings are a meaningless formality anywhere, just learn them and the expected answers by heart and ignore the meaning.

Merem4y ago

Please re-read what I wrote. The sentence in question: "And, as explained, in German the discussed greetings are actually taken rather literally."

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0 pointsdahfizz4y ago0 comments

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Merem4y ago

corty4y ago

Merem4y ago

Please re-read what I wrote. The sentence in question: "And, as explained, in German the discussed greetings are actually taken rather literally."

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