17 January 2008
Port Louis — Hello and welcome to the English Language Clinic. This week I am going to talk about something quite difficult; so, I really want you to concentrate.
In fact, I am not sure that you are going to understand, but try your best! This week's question regards the meaning of the word 'patronise'. There are two main definitions of this verb. It can mean 'to be an especially regular customer or client of a business', as in Cornelius 'patronised' the same haberdashery (shop selling items used for sewing, like buttons and thread) for 20 years. In this sense, the person (Cornelius) performing the action is known as a 'patron' of the shop.
The other sense of to 'patronise' and the one, which I think you will find very difficult to understand, is 'to treat someone condescendingly', that is, treat someone as though they are inferior in some way, especially in terms of intelligence. If that's too difficult, don't worry, at least you tried!
By this point, you might be finding my tone a little annoying, as if I have been talking to a small child. If so, I apologise, I have been attempting to be 'patronising', but not particularly skilfully (I am now attempting to be 'self-deprecating' (being dismissive of my own talents) in an effort to diffuse any offence I may have caused).
It is generally considered extremely rude to be 'patronising', so try to avoid the following: "Even you should understand this!"; "I could answer your question, but you wouldn't understand the answer" and "It is generally considered extremely rude to be 'patronising', so try to avoid the following "
Please send your comments, queries and questions to "Dr Danny" at the British Council Language Clinic by emailing p.etienne@lexpress.mu.
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