"Bristol 404" is a science fiction short story written by John Brunner. It was first published in 1966 and explores themes of communication and misunderstanding between different species. The narrative revolves around a group of humans who encounter an alien race, leading to unexpected consequences due to their inability to comprehend each other's languages and intentions. The story is set in a future where humanity has expanded into space, highlighting the challenges of interstellar diplomacy. "Bristol 404" serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of effective communication and the potential pitfalls of assuming mutual understanding across cultures.