[mythtv-users] British vs. American English (was MythTV requires a better name)

[R. G. Newbury]

David Brodbeck wrote:
> On Sep 19, 2007, at 9:49 PM, R. G. Newbury wrote:
>> This was fine, since it brought his activities to the
>> notice of the policeman in the unmarked car, just ahead of me (a Q- 
>> car,
>> if anyone wants another entry to the two countries rent by a language
>> thread).
> 
> I've heard the term "Q-ship" used in American usage to refer to a car  
> that's far faster than it looks.  "Sleeper" is more common, though.   
> Never heard it used to refer to an unmarked cop car, but given the  
> etymology of the term it makes sense.
> 

The original Q-ships were merchantmen, fitted with naval guns in 
disguised housings. They were intended to sucker U-boats into attacking 
on the surface, where they could be destroyed. U-boat captains preferred 
to save their torpedoes for attacks which needed the advantage of 
underwater stealth. Single 'unarmed' merchantmen would be attacked from 
the surface with gunfire. Thus Q-ships...Surprise!!

Geoff



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