I speak a bit of French and the tiniest bit of Spanish and I think the issue you describe — similar phrases conveying very different meanings — would apply to ANY language. Although, perhaps English is a little worse, given that our language is based on Anglo, German, Dutch and French roots… Good for you for determining to learn the little but annoying words. The toe-to-toe vs. eye-to-eye idiom is also an interesting discovery!

Cheers from Germany,
Stefanie

P.S. I just found out that you say “toe-to-toe” when in German we say “Auge in Auge” – which means “eye in eye”.

For a similar reason, whenever I travel I try to read a book (in English, in my case) written by someone from the city or country I am visiting. I helps give me great insight into the place where I am travelling.

Thanks for your kind words, Ahlam!

Apologies for my convoluted beginning! Just goes to show: even native speakers can make mistakes!

The lead-in sentence in the email advertising this column made me pause, however! It read, “Writing for non-native English speakers must be terrifying.” Speaking of English grammar being difficult! I read it as “Writing for [a] non-native English[-speaking audience] must be terrifying.” Of course, two sentences into the column itself had me going back to figure out where I went wrong.

Thanks again for your excellent suggestions.

I’ve read some William Trevor before and really liked his writing. He has an interesting style.