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Post by locopolaco on Nov 1, 2008 3:48:16 GMT 1
ok some flat: "a flat" is the correct way. some would be rarely used, basically in the instance that jeanne stated. in america the word ia an apartment. some apartment doesn't sound right either except in jeanne instance.
exactly why it really doesn't go with the word "flat". that amount is known to be 1.
Czubić = peck at
this is related to: zpawiać = to get defensive
paw = peac*ck
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Post by locopolaco on Nov 1, 2008 3:54:22 GMT 1
Better is: Dla Was też! (for you too). Wy is you in the first case only, but other cases (there are 7 of them in Polish) require to use was. Oh good, only 7...  Do you see why help is needed???!!! Even the darn books, tapes, translators, etc. that I have seem to be wrong rather frequently. Maybe we could just have a "phrase of the day" or "daily grammar lesson" thread? Between you, tufta, and loco maybe it wouldn't be too much work??? Please don't make me beg...  i'm very impressed gigi. for the most part you get the tenses, genders, etc right on. i can't even fathom how you do it but i think it's great. |
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Post by Bonobo on Nov 14, 2008 13:04:12 GMT 1
My student wrote: I`ve not got.......
Is it a mistake or just a rarely used form?
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Post by locopolaco on Nov 14, 2008 17:34:55 GMT 1
i have not gotten would be correct.. past perfect tense.. the way you (the student) wrote, is not correct.
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Post by jeanne on Nov 15, 2008 3:01:29 GMT 1
My student wrote: I`ve not got....... Is it a mistake or just a rarely used form? I'm curious as to what the rest of the sentence was. Loco was right that "I have not gotten..." would be correct if the rest of the sentence was something like: "I have not gotten an email from him." But, if the student had written something like: "I've not got the correct answer", it should be: "I haven't the right answer", or "I don't have the right answer." Lots of native speakers would insert "got" and say "I haven't got the right answer" and that's really not correct but is popular use. |
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Post by Bonobo on Nov 15, 2008 21:50:25 GMT 1
Oops, I am sorry. By accident I misled you.
The subject matter isn`t got or gotten. The expression I have got meaning I have, I possess is commonly used in British English and as our textbooks are printed in Britain, we teach it to Polish students.
What I had in mind was the contraction of I and have followed by uncontracted not.
OK, let`s start again...
My student wrote: I`ve not heard from him for a long time.
Is I`ve not a common use of the language or rare?
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Post by locopolaco on Nov 16, 2008 0:36:15 GMT 1
Oops, I am sorry. By accident I misled you. The subject matter isn`t got or gotten. The expression I have got meaning I have, I possess is commonly used in British English and as our textbooks are printed in Britain, we teach it to Polish students. What I had in mind was the contraction of I and have followed by uncontracted not. OK, let`s start again... My student wrote: I`ve not heard from him for a long time. Is I`ve not a common use of the language or rare? yes. it can also be written I haven't. and yes, what your student wrote is correct. |
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Post by jeanne on Nov 16, 2008 12:43:35 GMT 1
yes. it can also be written I haven't. and yes, what your student wrote is correct. Agreed  |
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Post by Bonobo on Nov 21, 2008 11:37:04 GMT 1
Thanks.
One more thing: how do you read VAT? (Value Added Tax). As one word or each letter seperately?
In one exercise with gap sentences you had to fill the blank with permanent to describe a job. There was also stable in the list but the key didn`t allow to use it, only permanent was possible.
One of my student chose stable and argued she saw such a connotation in her books or a dictionary. She was very sure of it.
What do you think?
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Post by jeanne on Nov 21, 2008 12:41:08 GMT 1
Thanks. One more thing: how do you read VAT? (Value Added Tax). As one word or each letter seperately? In one exercise with gap sentences you had to fill the blank with permanent to describe a job. There was also stable in the list but the key didn`t allow to use it, only permanent was possible. One of my student chose stable and argued she saw such a connotation in her books or a dictionary. She was very sure of it. What do you think? Usually with acronyms (like VAT), if the letters can be said as a word (if there are appropriate vowels) they are said that way. So my guess is that VAT would be pronounced as a word. But something like FBI is always said as separate letters. There's really no set rule. For example the AAA (American Automobile Assoc.) is always said "Triple A" and the NAACP (National Assoc. for the Advancement of Colored People) is usually said "N double A, CP". I think there is a difference in the meanings of "stable" and "permanent" when referring to a job. "Stable" would mean that there is little chance of being 'laid off', or asked to leave because of down-sizing, seasonal, or economic changes in circumstances. "Permanent" could mean you were not hired on a temporary basis, that the job will last indefinitely. For example, a substitute teacher does not have a 'permanent' job, but will leave when the absent permanent teacher returns. |
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Post by Bonobo on Nov 30, 2008 22:46:03 GMT 1
Thanks. One more thing: how do you read VAT? (Value Added Tax). As one word or each letter seperately? In one exercise with gap sentences you had to fill the blank with permanent to describe a job. There was also stable in the list but the key didn`t allow to use it, only permanent was possible. One of my student chose stable and argued she saw such a connotation in her books or a dictionary. She was very sure of it. What do you think? Usually with acronyms (like VAT), if the letters can be said as a word (if there are appropriate vowels) they are said that way. So my guess is that VAT would be pronounced as a word. But something like FBI is always said as separate letters. There's really no set rule. For example the AAA (American Automobile Assoc.) is always said "Triple A" and the NAACP (National Assoc. for the Advancement of Colored People) is usually said "N double A, CP". I think there is a difference in the meanings of "stable" and "permanent" when referring to a job. "Stable" would mean that there is little chance of being 'laid off', or asked to leave because of down-sizing, seasonal, or economic changes in circumstances. "Permanent" could mean you were not hired on a temporary basis, that the job will last indefinitely. For example, a substitute teacher does not have a 'permanent' job, but will leave when the absent permanent teacher returns. Oh, I see. I suspected it to be this way. Another question. You might have problems with listening to the guy`s monologue on youtube, but I tried to find the shortest fragment. Which part of the US is he from? Is it recognizable? |
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Post by jeanne on Dec 1, 2008 2:23:48 GMT 1
Another question. You might have problems with listening to the guy`s monologue on youtube, but I tried to find the shortest fragment. Which part of the US is he from? Is it recognizable? I listened to this clip several times and all I can say is that it sounds to me like a mid-west accent. I have some friends who come from southern Illinois and their accent is similar. Maybe some of our other Americans can shed some light on it; possibly someone who is familiar with the movie and picked up a clue from something else besides the accent. |
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Post by tufta on Dec 1, 2008 12:05:32 GMT 1
This will probably have nothing in common with the origins of accent presented. Nonetheless the way the guy was talking reminded me Claude Bukowski, a character in 'Hair', especially in the scene I remember until now - when he first meets the gang of hippies in the Central Park. Asked where is he from replies 'Ocklahome' in a manner which was embedded in my brain ;D
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Post by jeanne on Dec 1, 2008 12:19:53 GMT 1
Asked where is he from replies 'Ocklahome' in a manner which was embedded in my brain ;D Can't get more mid-western than 'Ocklahome'! ;D ;D |
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Post by tufta on Dec 3, 2008 10:22:30 GMT 1
Asked where is he from replies 'Ocklahome' in a manner which was embedded in my brain ;D Can't get more mid-western than 'Ocklahome'! ;D ;D Thanks Jeanne. I have a problem with this term - mid-West, but at least now I will remember - Oklahoma is just in the middle |
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Post by Bonobo on Jan 20, 2009 11:53:56 GMT 1
A handful of problems: walk through the street means across or along? How do you call this piece of furniture where you keep your shoes in the hall next to the front door? Is there still a difference between further and farther in English or has it worn off? Or, more possibly, it still exists but isn`t respected by most native speakers? When students work in pairs, can they also work in couples? Are two present tenses possible for this: A lot of tourists visit/are visiting London at this time of year. I am baby sitting for my sister means I am taking care of my sister`s child, not of herself?? Why a pet parrot is called Buttons? Can you say a rasher of cheese? Is a hang-glider considered an aircraft? Can we say city centres? I never remember the proper usage of good work/good job. He does good job/ or good work  In the bookcase - a book is on the middle shelf of the bookcase. On the bookcase - a book is on top of the bookcase. Yes? I found such a sentence: Would you like anything, please? Normally, grammar requires you to use something in offering questions. Is anything acceptable? If prisoners make a tunnel and escape from jail, do they still break out ? Can you groom a groom? That is, prepare the bridegroom to the wedding??? The Browns suggests only parents/adults or the whole family with their children?? |
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gigi
Kindergarten kid
Posts: 1,470
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Post by gigi on Jan 20, 2009 15:03:57 GMT 1
A handful of problems: walk through the street means across or along? AlongHow do you call this piece of furniture where you keep your shoes in the hall next to the front door? Do you mean a hall tree bench?img.thefind.com/images/VAATsDbaMY1hGkOdATNDWmlRXmZJaVEqQ0ZJSYGVvn55eblecUlicnZxYl4KhKGXnJ-rn5mbmJ5arF9QlJ9SmlyiX5SarmtoYG5oZKKXVZDOwAAA?m=1&g=Is there still a difference between further and farther in English or has it worn off? Or, more possibly, it still exists but isn`t respected by most native speakers? Farther refers to physical distance: "I am so tired, I cannot go any farther."
Further refers to a metaphorical distance: "My feet ache from walking so much; further, I need to get something to eat before I get a headache." In this case the further means further along the list of irritations.
It is not always evident whether the distance is a physical one or not; further, native speakers often use them interchangeably. When students work in pairs, can they also work in couples? Couples usually implies a more intimate pairing and would not be used in place of pairs in this example. However, couple can refer to two of something in a pure numerical sense. For example: "Those children are a couple of pranksters."Are two present tenses possible for this: A lot of tourists visit/are visiting London at this time of year. Yes, present vs. present participle.I am baby sitting for my sister means I am taking care of my sister`s child, not of herself?? Yes. If you were caring for your sister, you would simply drop the "for".Why a pet parrot is called Buttons? Hmm, I have no idea, but it is more original than Polly. Can you say a rasher of cheese? I don't think so. I have only heard that term in reference to bacon.Is a hang-glider considered an aircraft? Yes, a non-powered aircraft.Can we say city centres? That spelling is sometimes used here when people are trying to make something sound more upscale. I have also seen the use of theatre vs. theater.
I never remember the proper usage of good work/good job. He does good job/ or good work They are used interchangeably. It is confusing, though, since you can "work" without having a "job", and you can be told, "Good job!" when you have completed something you have worked on. In the bookcase - a book is on the middle shelf of the bookcase. On the bookcase - a book is on top of the bookcase. Yes? Yes.I found such a sentence: Would you like anything, please? Normally, grammar requires you to use something in offering questions. Is anything acceptable? It is very common to hear, "Would you like anything?" or "Would you like something?" interchangeably, but without the word please added at the end of it. If prisoners make a tunnel and escape from jail, do they still break out ? Yes, the term break out simply means to escape.Can you groom a groom? That is, prepare the bridegroom to the wedding??? We usually attempt to. ;D The Browns suggests only parents/adults or the whole family with their children?? Either. Sometimes you will hear people say the Brown family vs. the Browns when referring to the adults and children, or whole family, but the term the Browns can be used interchangeably (it is just more ambiguous). |
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Post by Bonobo on Jan 20, 2009 22:22:37 GMT 1
Do you mean a hall tree bench?How about a cupboard without a rack?  It is not always evident whether the distance is a physical one or not; further, native speakers often use them interchangeably. [/b] That`s what I wanted to know. Can we say city centres? That spelling is sometimes used here when people are trying to make something sound more upscale. I have also seen the use of theatre vs. theater.
I didn`t mean the British spelling centre which is normal in Poland as Britain is closer than US. I meant the plural usage of city centers.
They are used interchangeably. It is confusing, though, since you can "work" without having a "job", and you can be told, "Good job!" when you have completed something you have worked on.
I feel relieved. Now I won`t bother if I use them correctly.
If prisoners make a tunnel and escape from jail, do they still break out ?
Yes, the term break out simply means to escape.
I often help my students learn new voc by provoking their imagination. Breaking out suggests breaking bars or even making a hole in the wall. Remember Daltons?
Thanks.
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gigi
Kindergarten kid
Posts: 1,470
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Post by gigi on Jan 23, 2009 14:42:35 GMT 1
This is a bit advanced for me, but I found a fun site where you can test your Polish language skills by playing the game Hangman. www.mylanguageexchange.com/HManList.asp?x3=34I did get the capital of Poland question right! ;D ;D ;D |
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Post by tufta on Jan 23, 2009 15:20:25 GMT 1
This is a bit advanced for me, but I found a fun site where you can test your Polish language skills by playing the game Hangman. www.mylanguageexchange.com/HManList.asp?x3=34I did get the capital of Poland question right! ;D ;D ;D You did?  |
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Post by Bonobo on Jan 31, 2009 23:19:08 GMT 1
Brrr - I don`t know how to translate it in English, it is said when water is cold, for example.
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gigi
Kindergarten kid
Posts: 1,470
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Post by gigi on Jan 31, 2009 23:31:29 GMT 1
Brrr - I don`t know how to translate it in English, it is said when water is cold, for example. We say "ice cold" or "freezing cold". Is that what you mean? We also say "Brrr" a lot (at least we where I live).  |
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Post by Bonobo on Jan 31, 2009 23:43:29 GMT 1
Brrr - I don`t know how to translate it in English, it is said when water is cold, for example. We say "ice cold" or "freezing cold". Is that what you mean? We also say "Brrr" a lot (at least we where I live). Regular words are bad translation. We need a word which reminds one of the sound or is one, actually. So, can brrr remain as the translation? |
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gigi
Kindergarten kid
Posts: 1,470
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Post by gigi on Feb 1, 2009 14:44:35 GMT 1
Regular words are bad translation. We need a word which reminds one of the sound or is one, actually. So, can brrr remain as the translation? Works for me! |
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Post by jeanne on Apr 25, 2009 18:38:50 GMT 1
A question for Polish natives:
What would be the nickname/diminutive for 'Zygmunt'? For instance, what would a wife call her husband if his name is Zygmunt? (no wise-guy answers here, please, I'm serious! ;D)
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Post by Bonobo on Apr 25, 2009 21:12:59 GMT 1
A question for Polish natives: What would be the nickname/diminutive for 'Zygmunt'? For instance, what would a wife call her husband if his name is Zygmunt? (no wise-guy answers here, please, I'm serious! ;D) Zygmunt is a tricky name because normally it is not shortened for adults. But you are lucky, you have run into an expert - me. I have two Zygmunts in family, a father and a son. They are addressed by their wife and mother as Zyga. Another diminutive, Zygmuś, little Zygmunt, wouldn`t be used by a wife, more by a mother of a small boy. So, unless the wife wants to treat her husband in an extremely maternally patronising way, she can say Zyga. This is a wise guy`s answer which is serious.  |
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Post by jeanne on Apr 26, 2009 0:11:46 GMT 1
A question for Polish natives: What would be the nickname/diminutive for 'Zygmunt'? For instance, what would a wife call her husband if his name is Zygmunt? (no wise-guy answers here, please, I'm serious! ;D) Zygmunt is a tricky name because normally it is not shortened for adults. But you are lucky, you have run into an expert - me. I have two Zygmunts in family, a father and a son. They are addressed by their wife and mother as Zyga. Another diminutive, Zygmuś, little Zygmunt, wouldn`t be used by a wife, more by a mother of a small boy. So, unless the wife wants to treat her husband in an extremely maternally patronising way, she can say Zyga. This is a wise guy`s answer which is serious. Thank you so much, Bonobo! I knew I could count on you for an expert explanation. ;D |
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Post by tufta on Apr 27, 2009 10:27:25 GMT 1
It seems we have found another regional difference! In Warsaw numerous forms of calling Zygmunt are used. All are real, none is invented Warsawians seem to like this Germanic name, probably because of the king Zygmut Waza the Third! ;D ;D ;D Zygmuntek Zygmunio Zygmuniek Zygmuś Zyguś Zyzio Zyś Munio Muniek (Like Zygmunt Staszczyk, Polish pop-star) In fact "Zyga" sounds (and is used in Warsaw) as an augmentative form not the diminutive one. |
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Post by Bonobo on Apr 27, 2009 22:03:35 GMT 1
Zygmuntek Zygmunio Zygmuniek Zygmuś Zyguś Zyzio Zyś Munio Muniek (Like Zygmunt Staszczyk, Polish pop-star) Hmm, I didn`t know that Muniek comes from Zygmunt. It seems the only acceptable one for an adult man to be addressed by his wife, because the rest sound just silly and suit boys, quite small. ;D ;D PS. You seem not to like rock because Staszczyk plays mostly rock, not pop. ;D ;D ;D ;D What is augmentative? I had to check it... ;D ;D ;D ;D But notice that Jeanne asked for a nickname or diminutive. ;D ;D |
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Post by jeanne on Apr 27, 2009 22:22:12 GMT 1
It seems we have found another regional difference! In Warsaw numerous forms of calling Zygmunt are used. All are real, none is invented Warsawians seem to like this Germanic name, probably because of the king Zygmut Waza the Third! ;D ;D ;D Zygmuntek Zygmunio Zygmuniek Zygmuś Zyguś Zyzio Zyś Munio Muniek (Like Zygmunt Staszczyk, Polish pop-star) In fact "Zyga" sounds (and is used in Warsaw) as an augmentative form not the diminutive one. I love this forum because when I ask a question, I receive way more information than I anticipated!! ;D Thanks! ;D And actually, Tufta, your information interests me, for as you may have guessed (or maybe not) that my grandfather's name was Zygmunt (changed to Zygmont after immigrating). We are not sure exactly where he came from (this is the biggest puzzle I'm working on now), but some relatives thought he came from a small town near Warsaw. His father was the mayor there and also a lawyer. |
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