Will the language mistakes never end?

Once again this weekend I told a kid he was going to die. Actually, the last time, I told a kid that his friend died, so this time it was different.

The Swedes seem to use the phrase “gått bort,” which I interpret as ‘gone/go away’ to describe someone who has passed away. Honestly, I can’t keep up with this stuff.

The kids are on a break from school so I asked my son’s friend if he was going anywhere for the break, but instead I asked him if he was going to die during the break. I realized my mistake when the kid got very shocked and quiet and I quickly said in Swedish “resa! (vacation!).”

I won’t be surprised if that kid doesn’t want to come visit anymore.