What they say/What they mean, Op. 3

Sensible Talk reader David Hume sent in this insightful example, one that I heard plenty of times during my stints with U.S. newspapers. Thank you, David.

What they say:

You are not being a "team player."

What they mean:

You are not willing to cover for my screw-ups.

Feel free to send additional suggestions my way. (E-mail link at the top of my profile page.)

Robert Niles also can be found at http://www.themeparkinsider.com