The Interpreter has raged against the bureaucratisation and formulaic phrasing that the English language is increasingly falling victim to. So it was refreshing to see some of the creative phrases and idioms that have emerged in China.
Sadly, many of the best and most colourful signs in Shanghai are soon to go; I was told that people have been employed to review the accuracy of the translations in the lead up to Expo 2010. Before these creations are lost forever, a few are captured below.
My favourite was this very comprehensive park notice in Shanghai, which should be heritage listed:
The best and spiciest dressing available: [fold]
Never feel lost again (ok, a bit of the sign is missing):
In Shanghai airport:
Unlikely combination:
