English is a difficult language….. for some!

English is a difficult language…. for some!

This is a true story from the Japanese Embassy in the US!

A few years ago, Prime Minister Mori was going to Washington to meet President Barack Obama. Before his visit he was given some Basic English conversation training. The instructor said to Prime Minister: “When you shake hands with President Obama, say ’how are you?’ Then Mr. Obama should say, ‘I’m fine, and you?’ Now you should say ‘me too’. Afterwards we, translators, will do the work for you.” It looks quite simple, but the truth is…

When Mori met Obama, he mistakenly said ‘who are you?’ (instead of ‘how are you?’)

Mr. Obama was a bit shocked but still managed to react with humour: “Well, I’m Michelle’s husband, ha-ha…”

Then Mori replied: “Me too, ha-ha…”

Then there was a long silence in the meeting room.