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

[Geoff Bannister]

No: HPFGUIDX 80444

--- In HPforGrownups at yahoogroups.com, "jeffl1965" <jeffl1965 at h...> 
wrote:
> --- 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?
> 


Geoff (the traditionally spelt one!):
Curiously, I was always under the impression that bloody was a 
corruption of "by Our Lady" - ie in Cathlolic speak, Mary.