A Mexican man who spoke no English walked into a department store determined to buy one simple thing: socks. He found his way to the menswear section, where a young saleswoman immediately offered to help.

“Quiero calcetines,” the man said politely.

“I don’t speak Spanish,” the saleswoman replied cheerfully, “but we have some very nice suits over here.”

“No, no quiero trajes. Quiero calcetines,” the man repeated.

“Well, these shirts are on sale this week,” she said, pointing to another rack.

“No, no quiero camisas. Quiero calcetines,” he insisted.

Growing more confused, she gestured again. “We have excellent pants here.”

“No, no quiero pantalones. Quiero calcetines.”

By now, the saleswoman was losing patience. “Sweaters? Very good quality.”

“No, no quiero suéter. Quiero calcetines.”

Finally, exasperated, she snapped, “I don’t understand what you want!”

The man sighed, lifted one foot, removed his shoe, peeled off his sock, held it up, and said slowly:

“SOCKS.”