VI Международная студенческая научная конференция Студенческий научный форум - 2014

What language do you learn? English? French? German? Japanese? Or maybe, one of languages ​​of the numerous tribes of South Africa? Each of the languages ​​of different countries, regions and nationalities - is unique. Foreign language is like a tiny house door, which leads to the big world. But only knowledge is not enough. And what about the etiquette? What about rules of behavior? National customs and traditions? Without this knowledge the way to foreign country is closed for you.

Just imagine, You have come abroad. What should you do first? That’s right! You should say «hello». But be careful! Wrong gesticulation – is the key to all troubles. So, in Japan, do not shake hands with someone, during the greeting. And especially, don’t clap someone’s shoulder. In Japan it’s considered too vulgar! And in Muslim countries, in general, it’s not allowed to touch the other person. Also, you shouldn’t shake hands with women. It’s good, that Britain and America doesn’t have such prohibitions. But handshaking in Britain and America is not very popular. In Spain and France, at meeting people are supposed to kiss each other on the cheek for several times. And in some Kenyan tribe people at meeting are spitting to each other. Be ready for it!

It would be very impolite to refuse an invitation to dinner, especially if you are invited by a foreigner. But even in such situation there are some secrets. For example, in Thailand, you can’t put food in your mouth with a fork. You should use only a spoon. A fork should just help in laying the food on the spoon. And in France it’s prohibited to eat bread as an appetizer before serving dishes. In Korea, if one of the older offers you a drink - raise your glass with two hands! Most unhappy people are those, who are left-handed. Because in India you shouldn’t use your left hand while eating. That's because in India the left hand is associated with going to the toilet. You should be cautious in such situations!

Also, in some countries you should be careful while using some kind of gestures. Even, when in your country it’s just an inoffensive sign. So, in Japan fingers folded in the sign “OK” means that your companion wants to ask you for some money. But in Turkey and Greece it's quite rude gesture. Also, in the Middle East countries the thumb raised up is the equivalent to the raised middle finger. And one of the favorite heavy metal musicians gesture «the sign of the horns» is very offensive in Italy and Spain. Showing this sign means that your companion’s wife was unfaithful. Learn about such situations and then you’ll avoid troubles.

So, if you want to communicate properly with foreigners, the only knowledge of the language is not enough. It’s necessary to know the rules and regulations of international etiquette. Otherwise, you can get into an uncomfortable position, or even offend the foreigner, and what is worse, end up in a fight. Every country has its own established customs and traditions. And we, as the guests must strictly follow their rules. Then, we will have more chances to make a good impression about ourselves. Because, it’s very good to be an invited guest. Isn’t it?

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