On Mon, Sep 6, 2010 at 1:06 PM, Raman.P <[email protected]> wrote: > >> From: Kenneth Gonsalves <[email protected]> >> Subject: Re: [Ilugc] number in translation >> Raman.P wrote: >> > Yes, I will feel insulted. We cannot and should not >> change basics of >> > our languages for the sake of machines. >> >> well if some one close to me uses the singular mode of >> talking I will >> not feel insulted - so you mean that our interaction with >> machines >> should be more formal? >> > > but machines are not human beings. Apart from that, in any written > communication we Indians generally tend to be more formal.
While English does not have a respectful version of you/go etc, it is normal to see a "Please" added before actions or address. Software (and the folks behind it) tend to convey messages and prompts in a respectful manner. Same goes for "directions to use" or other such messages on product packaging and boards in public areas. It would make sense to use language in a way that it does not raise heckles, IMHO. -- Mohan Sundaram _______________________________________________ ILUGC Mailing List: http://www.ae.iitm.ac.in/mailman/listinfo/ilugc
