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I also offer personally-tailored, individualized English conversation practice (including etiquette) and coaching in writing techniques. Finally, I edit texts such as magazines, business proposals, memorandums, emails so they are presented in English which does not embarrass you or your organization. For further details, please mail me at: language.etiquette@gmail.com

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05 June 2018

An interesting and unconventional turn of phrase from a Ukrainian lady

"Willingly lured into an extra-marital affair with Russian oligarch and living cliché Akbar Gromov, she is thrust deeper into the world of the super-rich: private jets, designer clothes and exclusive parties."

This is the intriguing second paragraph of a friend of mine's  new novel, "Snow Job: the Great Game". The author is Ukrainian and used to live in Moscow. I recommend her blend of fun, finance, and femininity....

There are two words, used together, in the quoted sentence that say an awful lot: can you spot them? I have often said, and repeat here, that the way Russian speakers misuse the English language can be illuminating and attractive. Same even more so, when they use it correctly but in a striking illustration of a basically different thought pattern. 

So don't be ashamed; don't try to imitate; and always be clear, concise and conscious of the person you are talking to (i.e. writing for). And check out Ms Ferchenko's previous book on Amazon, "Confessions of a Female Banker".

See: http://jenniferchenko.com/ 

3 comments:

  1. I suppose these two words are "extra-marital affair".
    Am I right?

    ReplyDelete
  2. I can't spot them :( Can please you point those two words out?

    ReplyDelete
  3. "living cliché"?
    The name "Akbar Gromov" also sounds a bit off; I can just hope it is explained in the book.. A hero can bear any name as long as people in real life can have any combinations of name and surname - but there's also a story behind it..

    ReplyDelete