[QUOTE=Celyn]
Hehehe, yes, us is very backward here. 
btw - I like "torch better than “flashlight” because, after all, most of the time I need a torch/portable light source, it would be pretty annoying if it insisted on flashing on and off all the time.
[/QUOTE]
Ah but it’s a "flash"light, not a "flashing"light.
Of course, when you’re talking about a country whose Parliament includes both a Black Rod and an Honourable Member for Dorking, you have to make certain allowances…
[QUOTE=Celyn]
Hehehe, yes, us is very backward here.
btw - I like "torch better than “flashlight” because, after all, most of the time I need a torch/portable light source, it would be pretty annoying if it insisted on flashing on and off all the time.
[/QUOTE]
Flashlight is the Band-Aid of electric torches.
I really need to carry a notebook around with me. A few months ago I ran across an example of the British changing something that was American for the British market. All I can remember now was I found it pretty funny and knew A thread would show up eventually. Dang memory, I lose so many posts that way.
[QUOTE=Rayne Man]
[QUOTE=Celyn]
Hehehe, yes, us is very backward here.
btw - I like "torch better than “flashlight” because, after all, most of the time I need a torch/portable light source, it would be pretty annoying if it insisted on flashing on and off all the time.
[/QUOTE]
I think the two phrases are now interchangeable and I have heard both over here.
[/QUOTE]
My friends and I almost always use Merry Christmas. I do remember a conversation once where we noted that one often says “Merry Christmas” and “Happy New Year” and even “Happy Christmas” but never “Merry New Year”. We’ve resolved to change this practice by saying “Merry New Year” whenever possible.
We started 10 years ago - I don’t think we’re making inroads yet.