American Pick-Up Lines That Will Not Work Overseas
By Nick Martens
The United States has a bad reputation around the world these days. So even though the following common American icebreakers (spoken in the appropriate language, of course) seem universal, they may not be interpreted quite how you intend.
“I like your necklace.”
You mean: “I admire your taste in fashion and am therefore intrigued by your personality.”
She hears: “Y’all look like Snooki.”
“Can I buy you a drink?”
You mean: “A libation will loosen our inhibitions and give us an excuse to chat a bit.”
She hears: “I will make you dependent on my ostensibly benevolent foreign capital.”
“Would you like to dance?”
You mean: “Perhaps a few minutes of cooperative rhythmic motion will spark some physical attraction between us.”
He hears: “Please Riverdance for my amusement.”
“Where are you from?”
You mean: “You seem like an interesting person and I wish to learn about your background.”
He hears: “Does your land contain any valuable natural resources?”
“Do you want to go out for lunch?”
You mean: “A meal together would be an opportunity for us to engage in an in-depth personal conversation.”
She hears: “This country has McDonald’s, right?”
“I’m not from around here.”
You mean: “I am in an unfamiliar place with few acquaintances; maybe you can tell me more about it.”
She hears: “I am personally responsible for the election of George W. Bush and much of his administration’s foreign policy.”
“What’s your number?”
You mean: “Let’s arrange a future outing to continue and hopefully advance our acquaintanceship.”
She hears: “I’m pretty sure this is the Red Light District.”