MadCat said:Yes, it's a subtle but crucial difference.
"Ich bin ein Berliner" - I am a type of doughnut traditionally made in Berlin, hence the name
"Ich bin Berliner" - I am a citizen of Berlin and in no way resemble any deep fried products.
You'd think his speech writers/translators might have checked up on it before they gave it to the president to say. Or they could have done it as a joke I suppose...
Ooerr! I didn't know about that one! Best to have the presidential limo close to hand for situations like that...carole said:Mind you, it's not as bad as President Ford, telling a bunch of bemused Poles that he desired them carnally instead of saying he was very pleased to meet them . . .