preparation part.pptVIP

Cultural Differences Unit 1 People from different countries may choose different ways to deal with the same situations. Thus, sometimes, misunderstanding arises. Situation 1 – home visit Cultural Differences Chinese point to their nose to signify “me” sometimes, while Americans point to their chest. In most parts of the world, nodding means “Yes” and shaking one’s head means “No”, but in some Arab countries it’s the opposite. Japanese people bow to show politeness/courtesy while people in most other parts of the world shake hands. In France and Belgium, the thumb-and-forefinger-in-a-circle (the okay gesture) has an insulting meaning: You are worth zero”, while in North America or some other parts of the world, it is a friendly gesture. In Greece and Turkey it is an insulting or vulgar sexual invitation. Chinese Modesty vs. American Straightforwardness 1. At a party when complimented for cooking skills Chinese host or hostess will _________________________________. American host or hostess will __________________________________ 2. When talking about their children Chinese parents will _________________________________. American parents will _________________________________. 3. Hearing the word “no” Chinese will _____________________________ Americans will ___________________________ American Culture Listing Taboos in China Taboos in China 1. Avoid saying the word “die” or any word with the same pronunciation to anybody. 2. Never give a friend or relative, etc. an umbrella. In Chinese, the word umbrella “san” has a similar pronunciation to the word “san(散)” meaning “separation or parting”. 3. Don’t divide a pear among friends, relatives, etc. (Dividing a pear sounds like “fenli” in Chinese, meaning parting.) 4. Don’t send a clock to a Chinese, especially old people, because it carries a funeral connotation. 5. Don’t pat an adult on the head, which is insulting. 6. Don’t hug your Chinese friend’s wife even for greeting. 7. Presenting a pair or 2 of s