As Lynn Visson explores in this fascinating book, sometimes simply knowing a language is not enough to ensure good communication. Speaking a language without understanding the culture in which it is spoken can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication. WHAT MEAN? explores the problems of language and culture facing both Russians speaking English and Americans speaking Russian. An introduction to the basic issues of the link between language and culture is followed by a discussion of the reasons for some common errors in Russian and English. Numerous practical examples help readers understand the importance of cultural markers and signposts in both languages.