We use them without thinking about it. Little phrases that make non native speakers look at each other in complete puzzlement. They have similar phrases in their own language, but they are never quite the same. “Vive La difference!”, as we say in English. German couple on recent holiday had excellent English and an enthusiasm to speak to us. Musicians by trade, or more profession perhaps one might say, they had a good ear as you would expect. Teachers back in Germany where many teachers are classed as civil servants. My teachers, way back, were never that civil to me. … Continue reading “Basil Brush” English.