Meaning of words cause confusion

Printer-friendly version

Author: 

Taxonomy upgrade extras: 

Even though Britain and America both speak the same language, the different usage of words can sometimes cause confusion. One that came to my attention this week is the word jumper.

In UK English, a jumper is a sweater. A thick garment that is worn to keep the body warm. In American English, a jumper is a pinafore dress. A dress without sleeves and collar that is worn over a top or blouse.

My apologies if my use of jumper caused Americans confusion.

Hugs

Karen

Comments

Chunnel

I need to get a life - I'm replying to too many posts here LOL

The 'Chunnel' is merely slang for Channel Tunnel. Only trains use it and cars/lorries (another English word - aka trucks) are loaded onto special rolling stock. I've never used it (I like ships and the sea, and not too keen on being underground or seabed) but I think passengers remain in their cars for the duration of the crossing.

I'm not a wine expert, but vintage merely denotes the year. Some years have a good vintage and some not. I assume the word itself is derived from 'vin' = wine. I think using vintage to denote age is used for certain fortified wines (like Port) and, of course motor cars. I know a vintage motorcycle is one manufactured before 31 Dec 1930, but not sure about cars.

Geoff

Rumble seats and why it was called that

Ok I found out why the term rumble seats from my mother in law who's family owned a car with one. she actually road back there when she was a young girl.

The reason it was called a rumble seat was:

The area was not protected by much and you would get the rumble from the road as well as the wind. Alias, the Rumble seat. Road rumble!

Pages