6:44 AM @ Monday, October 4, 2010 @ Elgin
Don't we all make mistakes from time to time, saying the wrong things at the wrong time or even at the wrong place? How would you react if you said or did something wrong, but you did not know what was wrong? I was caught in a situation just like this, it was all because of one misinterpreted word.

Not too long ago, I was introduced to a European couple by a close friend of mine. It was quite a thrill for me to meet people from a different continent. Ben and Ashley were newly-wed couple and had just moved to Singapore because Ben was relocated by his company to Singapore for two years.

I was invited over to their home for dinner one night. We enjoyed each other's company as we chatted as we ate. The meal cooked by Ashley was superb and ever satisfying. What could be better than having great company and great food? I wanted to thank them for being so hospitable, so I said, "Thanks so much for inviting us over, with great food and company. You are such a homely couple".

Just then, their facial expression changed drastically. Ashley stood up frustrated, quickly cleared the table and went to the kitchen to wash the dishes. Ben, still seated at the table, looked as though someone had killed his dog. It suddenly became so quiet, that it almost seemed like the Cold War all over again. At that time, I didn't know what was wrong, but I knew there must be a reason why they had steam coming out of their ears and nose. I had to do something, so I asked Ben what was wrong.

After some clarification, I realized my folly. When I described them as "homely", I actually meant that they were hospitable and I felt comfortable. Little did I know it was an insult to them. Ben explained to me that in Europe, "homely" means unattractive and is used to make fun of someone. I immediately apologised to both of them, and explained to them my real intention. Thankfully, the misunderstanding was resolved immediately. Who would expect, a small little word, could have two very different meaning in two different cultures?
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