N.B. – This was published in Asian Correspondent (August 25, 10:50 p.m.) where I write a column (Philippine Fantasy).
This sign in front of the Bahay ng Alumni (loose translation: House of Alumni) in the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman leads me to one conclusion.
At UP, we always go Left! We don’t like going Right.
I know, it’s not really funny. But I’m sure you’ll get a chuckle or two after buying this doll.
Yes, these are changing times indeed. The sign below shows that you can mix numbers and letters and come up with a sign, just 4 U!
I hope I’m not just speaking for myself when I say that there is something wrong with a sign that sells pasta and…something!
As regards our next sign, there’s nothing ungrammatical about it. It’s just that the bathroom product has an interesting name.
I can only hope that the person who uses this does not end up looking like a couch potato!
Anyway, writing about couches reminds me of massage tables. In the Philippines, there are massage parlors that offer services beyond giving a massage. I guess this explains the defensive nature of this sign.
Let’s take a closer look at the message.
No need to explain. Just read between the lines!
Our next sign is taken from a tarpaulin which lists some signs of autism. Notice the error in diction?
Yes, the word “interacting” or “playing” should be used instead of “mixing.”
For our last sign, allow me to give another crash course in diction.
The word “persons” is a legal concept and refers to those who are natural (like you and me), juridical (like corporations) or both. In other words, persons could be living or non-living. What is a more accurate word to refer to those who are differently abled? People, of course.
More funny signs (and a few more English lessons) next week. Thank you for reading!