US vs. Australian English

[DallasSteve2]

Does anybody here have trouble understanding English-speakers from Australia?  They have a few expressions I would not understand, but basically I could watch a TV program from Australia or talk to a visitor from "down under" with little problem.

It's the same with Spanish.  Don't worry too much about whether you're getting Mexican-style or Colombian-style.  They'll understand you in both countries.  But you probably want to stay away from the verb "coger" in Argentina (and maybe Mexico, too).

Steve

[Bueller]

... in response to US vs. Australian English, posted by DallasSteve2 on Aug 2, 2004

You should stay away from "coger" in about all of Latin America, and say "agarrar" instead. No problem using it in Spain.

 As far as Colombian being the purest form of Spanish outside of Spain-- it's actually better and more understandable than anything I've heard in Spain or elsewhere. I wasn't surprised when a caleña friend of mine living in Madrid told me she got lots of compliments on her clear enunciation and beautiful accent from Spaniards. I spoke and understood Mexican Spanish pretty well before, but was kind of lost upon arriving in the region where Castellano originated, because of the accent and the speed with which they speak.

[DallasSteve2]

... in response to Re: US vs. Australian English, posted by Bueller on Aug 2, 2004

My wife says "coger" has no vulgar connotation in Colombia.  I don't know for sure; I'm no expert on that.  

I think "recoger" is OK pretty much everywhere.  Does anyone else know?

Steve