I spotted this poster on a wall at the mall and just had to take a photo. It’s a common mistake; you see it everywhere. No eating and drinking. The ticklish bit here is the ‘and’. Do they mean that you aren’t allowed to do both in their store at the same time? That if you’re eating and not drinking, it’s okay, or if you’re drinking but not eating, it’s fine, just don’t do both?
Sometimes you even see: No smoking, eating and drinking. No cell phones and cameras. No vending and soliciting.
I know everyone understands what the sign says. I know I’m being a bit nit-picky, but I am what I am. Up to me, I’d use ‘or’, so it’s clear that none of these activities is acceptable. Even if you’re only doing one of them.
I’ve done my part. Now it’s your turn. Leave a comment below.
This kind of sign is so annoying. I thought I was overthinking, but now I know that I am not alone.
What do you think about using and/or in that context?
It seems unnecessary in such a case. A sign should be short and to the point. You should be able to digest the whole thing and act appropriately in 3 seconds. If you just use “or” we’d get it.
Well as a teacher I support being as clear as possible at all times so or/and works for me. I believe our society however is more accepting of these ambiguities but english is english. Being clear as possbile is especially imporant when you in a foreign area where you are accountable for your actions and enforcing these rules are in effect consequences such as law suits can develop.
Good point. We all understand what the signs mean, but I do enjoy plating with the finer points of the language.
Agreed. I think it should be or. Glad I’m not the only one who’s annoyed by these little things.