Business English from All Ears English BE 528: Should You Say "Long Time, No See" in English?
10 snips
Feb 10, 2026 A discussion about whether the phrase "long time, no see" can be offensive and when to rethink casual sayings. Stories about discovering everyday words that carry problematic origins. Practical, friendly alternatives for workplace conversation. Advice on balancing connection with inclusive language at work.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Unexpected Word Origins Change Use
- Lindsay discovered the word "gypped" came from "gypsy" and stopped using it after learning its origin.
- She shared this to show people often use offensive words unknowingly and can change once informed.
Origins Make Common Phrases Problematic
- The University of California Riverside says "long time no see" mimicked and denigrated Chinese or Native American speech patterns.
- Awareness of a phrase's origin can change whether people choose to use it.
Common Idioms Can Have Derogatory Roots
- The phrase "no can do" also originated by mocking Chinese immigrant speech in the 19th century.
- Widespread usage doesn't erase a phrase's derogatory roots or its potential to offend.