Sometimes being out of context makes you reflect on the intricacies of your mother tongue and background (and sometimes have a good giggle at the ironies…).
For instance, the abbreviation ‘BOB’ (or ‘BYOB) can mean different things in different countries. In South Africa, ‘BOB’ can mean ‘Bring Own Booze’.
It’s a term often used in social gatherings, parties, or events where attendees are encouraged to bring their own alcoholic beverages or drinks. The host or venue may not provide alcohol, so participants are expected to bring their preferred beverages to consume during the event. This practice is common in situations where alcohol may not be readily available or where attendees have specific preferences for their drinks.
Where’s the Copywriting Humour?
Here in the Netherlands, you can often see ‘BOB’ signs next to the highway (which makes us South Africans or English speakers in general giggle a bit).
Here it means ‘Bewust Onbeschonken Bestuurder’ and is a slogan used to encourage people of the opposite – not to drink and drive (by being a ‘consciously sober driver’ or something to that effect).
That’s unintended copywriting humour!
Ever Come Across Some Unintended Copywriting Humour?
Comment below or drop native English copywriter, Elizabeth of WordWorx, a line via email: info[AT]elizabethjoss.com.