That hurts! Screeching mistakes in English
This refers to Bobby Kraut’s letter titled “Twisting the language” (Opinion, 4/22/14).
I regularly watch Channel 33 for the NBA games. I keep seeing “SEE YOU AT SPAIN.” Masakit sa mata (It’s painful to the eyes). As a Makati elementary and Rizal high alumnus and a San Beda English major, I believe “AT” should be “IN.” English seems to continue to be buried with full military honors regularly.
Manila has a published ordinance granting “Free Medical Care to Certain Individuals on [Aray (Ouch)!–RAV] all City-Owned Government Hospitals.” Again, masakit sa mata.
Or hearing a lawyer say on TV “awree” for “awry.” Ouch. Aray! Masakit sa tenga (It’s painful to the ear).
Manila has a mayor who is one of the few Filipinos who would say A is a “common friend” of B and C. Many will say “mutual friend.”
Filipinos and Americans may remain divided by a common language.
—RENE A.V. SAGUISAG,
