Dragan;

I will attempt to put a few thoughts into written words about the American form of the English language and a few personal experiences.

My brother and I were educated in Catholic schools and the Nuns were very strict about the use of our language, beginning with Kindergarten. We were told that we had to communicate and this phrase was drilled into our heads: “Who, What, When, Where, How and Why”? There are variations of this phrase but this was the one we lived with!

A group of Physiologists at Princeton University concluded that if two people were in a room sitting in full view of each other only 25% of what was discussed would be understood. This takes into account “body English”, and all other factors imaginable.

Studies have concluded that perhaps 5% to 9% of what is written in Internet communication is truly understood. It seems as though there is a great chance to miss interpreted what is being stated regardless of what means of communications one chooses to use.

My least favorite phrase in the American usage of the English language is, “You know what I mean”? I have heard it for over 35 years and have always stated to anyone making such a statement, “No, I have no concept of what you are talking about”!

When I was in my late teens I came to the conclusion that many people talk only to hear his/her own voice and have no ambition or desire to be understood. With that thought in mind I set out to attempt to clarify what sounds are uttered from others that are directed to me. I will ask for clarification only because I am interested in communicating. This irritates some people beyond belief!

One fellow I worked with during the late 1960’s thought he knew all that was worthy of mankind. He decided one day that there should only be one word in our language - an Old English term which means to fornicate. We sometimes call this the “f” word. He went on and on about how valuable this would be to society. No other word or words would be required.

I suggested to my coworker that he was very ill and in an operating room about to have brain surgery. The surgeon addresses the nurse and others who are helping with the operation. The surgeon says, “f”. The nurse says, “F”? Well this goes back and forth with different intonations being given to attempt to express what “f” means. While this is going on the patient dies on the operating table!

Yes, the American form of the English language is such great fun. It is “dynamic” and in a constant state of change – or is that flux?

When you see our politicians addressing the masses that becomes an interesting study. You must be able to speak to the “average American”. If you use a word of over four letters you may not be understood. Limiting your sentence length to 3.2 words average is imperative. You have to “talk to the people”! The people have no concept of what is being said and this is Democracy in action! :)

Tom