Idioms and slang (was: English slang (semi- sorta on topic))

[jeffl1965]

No: HPFGUIDX 80422

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "Geoff Bannister" 
<gbannister10 at a...> wrote:
> The topic of slang, idioms and pejorative language is interesting 
> when you look at the levels on which it operates and at JKR's use 
of 
> it – or non-use - in Harry Potter.
> 
   <snipped>

>  JKR seems to hold to these 
> rules in her writing as well. Obviously, as a children's book, the 
> language needs to be controlled. One of the things which has 
> surprised me in the films is that Ron, in particular, is a little 
bit 
> free and easy with some mild swearing which might still offend 
> listeners when coming from a child and which does not echo what is 
> said in the books.


  Jeff:

   Indeed. Most people don't know the origin of bloody, which 
should've gotten Ron smacked for saying infront of an adult, 
especially a lady teacher! 
   For those who don't know, Bloody is a contracted form of the 
swear " Blood of Christ" or "by the blood of Christ" iirc, and is a 
very serious swear, which is why its used so much in UK comedies.  
  Blimey, the old cockney swear, is shorted from Gor, blimey, or God 
Blind me! This can also get a kid a swat on the bum if he's not 
careful. :)
   Also, while we're on regions, it should be noted that for years 
the Londoners always considered the Northerers, from Merseyside and 
Liverpool and all Cockney's to be savages. Speaking cockney or 
scouse, was considered to be a sign of lower intelligence, so Ron 
would be considered to be a dolt. However, since the Weasleys are 
from near Devon, iirc, I don't really think they'd speak like that, 
but then again, they use Oi a lot, so maybe they do have a thick 
accent. Comments?

  Jeff