>>>And there, of course, is the rub. Many of us use language in a connotative manner, rather than a definitive one. The connotations often have no corresponding meaning in another part of the world, and so others end up assuming definition instead.
>>>
>>>Just don't buy a phrase translation book from Michael Palin. ;)
>>
>>
>>Almost right. It wasn't Michael Palin you shouldn't buy the book from, but Terry Jones, IIRC.
>
>Ah, that first paragraph from Alan was so wise and clarifying certain things. On his second line I got lost somewhat however. And after your reply I'm totally lost, I must confess. Who on earth are Michael Palin and Terry Jones! Please, don't answer. I'm not sure I want to know. Okay, you can tell me, but only if you allow me to tell you about Paul Cliteur.

They are 2 of the members of a British comedy troupe called "Monty Python's Flying Circus". They are tremendously funny, but probably not quite as funny if you aren't real comfortable with the English language.