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Doe Quote by John Flanagan

“S'mimasen," Alyss said repeatedly as they brushed against passerby. "What does that mean?" Will asked as they reached a stretch of street bare of any other pedestrians. He was impressed by Alyss's grasp of the local language. "It means 'pardon me,'" Alyss replied, but then a shadow of doubt…” quote by John Flanagan
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“S'mimasen," Alyss said repeatedly as they brushed against passerby. "What does that mean?" Will asked as they reached a stretch of street bare of any other pedestrians. He was impressed by Alyss's grasp of the local language. "It means 'pardon me,'" Alyss replied, but then a shadow of doubt crossed her face. "At least, I hope it does. Maybe I'm saying 'you have the manners of a fat, rancid sow.”

John Flanagan

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Lost Kingdom by John Flanagan, 2015

A character doubts the politeness of a phrase, fearing it may be insulting despite good intentions.

In simple terms: Worried a simple apology could be rude.

Key Takeaway

Check meaning before using unfamiliar phrases.

Themes

communication culture self_doubt

Mood

anervous curious

Type

cautionary reflective

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • first_encounters
  • cross_cultural_interaction

Key Concepts

politeness language_barriers

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify language usage abroad?
  • What steps ensure respectful communication?
A Different Perspective

Misinterpretation can cause embarrassment.

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