Tell me more ×
English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 2 down vote favorite

I'm not a native English speaker, and I don't understand the meaning of the phrase "in your general direction."

I have found its use in the line from Monty Python and the Holy Grail:

I fart in your general direction.

share|improve this question
1  
What is the question? Fart is funny in many parts of the world. If you are in doubt, give it a google search. – Noah Jun 18 '12 at 15:21
1  
okay ignore why it's funny question. What does "in your general direction" mean exactly.. ( I assumed it means "toward about where you are standing" ) – megaboy Jun 18 '12 at 15:24

closed as not constructive by J.R., Matt Эллен, Mahnax, FumbleFingers, KitFox♦ Jun 18 '12 at 15:54

As it currently stands, this question is not a good fit for our Q&A format. We expect answers to be supported by facts, references, or specific expertise, but this question will likely solicit debate, arguments, polling, or extended discussion. If you feel that this question can be improved and possibly reopened, see the FAQ for guidance.

2 Answers

up vote 2 down vote

I am guessing it is the 'general' causing problems?

It just means that the fart is not aimed precisely at the victim, like a gunshot, but more or less in his direction in more of an "over there somewhere" sort of way.

share|improve this answer
Very clear! Thanks!!! – megaboy Jun 18 '12 at 15:46
hanks!! that's what I thought it meant.. but then, The movie actually made me confused.... I couldn't get why it's supposed be so funny..and thought maybe 'in your general direction" had more meaning inside... – megaboy Jun 18 '12 at 15:51
up vote 3 down vote

You hit the nail on the head -- it means "toward about where you are standing".

share|improve this answer
Sorry Cornbread, the OP updated the question in the comments to one that's worth answering. I've edited the question to be about what he's interested in. – Matt Эллен Jun 18 '12 at 15:28
@MattЭллен updated FWIW. :) – cornbread ninja 麵包忍者 Jun 18 '12 at 15:29
Thanks!! that's what I thought it meant.. but then, The movie actually made me confused.... I couldn't get why it's supposed be so funny..and thought maybe 'in your general direction" had more meaning inside.. – megaboy Jun 18 '12 at 15:52
@megaboy no more meaning. it's just a silly way of saying "at you". No one really talks like that. – Charles Jun 18 '12 at 21:58

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.