When “Less” Means “Not At All.”

About this poem

During times of COVID-19 pandemic enforcement, some businesses, such as MacDonald’s Fast Food Company, are thriving; and in order to enforce caution and safety, have made innovative signs that are prominently posted, and which can be seen everywhere. One such sign that is planted at MacDonald’s fast food outlets, reads “Contactless Curbside Pickup,” with expectation that the sign is unambiguous. Whether ambiguous or not, for native speakers of English, the intent of the sign is clearly understood; that “contactless,” especially during a period of pandemic, requires absolutely “no contact. ” However, for speakers of English as a second language, with insufficient fluency in English, the word “contactless” may be interpreted literally to mean something akin to “reduction of contact,” not “absolutely no contact,” which is the intention and purpose of the sign as a COVID precaution. Such is the nature of language. more »