This is not one of my favorite expressions, precisely because of the 
ambiguity.  I like to be direct.

Go away is the way it seems to be used most often and most directly, 
when used as a command or a verb.

However, to describe someone as a "fuck off" would indicate that the 
recipient had few talents other than pleasing himself.

To command a fuck off to fuck off is probably unavoidable...and 
probably results in confusion.

Personally, I prefer a clear and unmistakable presentation of the 
center digit.  It says everything that needs to be said and is rarely 
misinterpreted.  Think how much discussion and commentary could have 
been avoided if Cheney had availed himself of this jesture.

I wonder what American Sign Language has to contribute to this 
conversation?

-jc


On Jul 4, 2004, at 12:31 PM, [log in to unmask] wrote:

> Gentle readers,
>  
> A correspondent of the Krautish persuasion has recently inquired (via 
> email, which in German means "enamel") as to the meaning of the phrase 
> "fuck off." 
>   
> I immediately responded that it meant both "go away" and "go abuse 
> oneself."   Further review and consultation with my associate George 
> down at The Mall indicated that "go away" is a more accurate rendition 
> than a directive that the other person should, shall we say (and 
> dependent of course upon gender-related configuration), choke the 
> chicken, club the clam, etc.
>  
> I should be ever so grateful for your views in regard to this matter, 
> on this anniversary of our national independence.
>  
> With warmest personal regards to all, I remain,
>  
> Ralph