1. Real-Life Conversation
Situation: Emily, an American, and Kenji, a Japanese student, are discussing cultural differences over coffee.
Emily: Hey Kenji, I noticed that when we greet each other, you always bow slightly. Is that a common custom in Japan?
Kenji: Yes! In Japan, bowing is a sign of respect. We bow when we greet someone, say thank you, or apologize. In the U.S., people usually shake hands, right?
Emily: Yes, or sometimes we just say "hi" and smile. But I heard that in Japan, shaking hands is not that common.
Kenji: That’s true. Some Japanese people do it when meeting foreigners, but it’s not our usual way. Also, I noticed that in the U.S., people are more direct when expressing opinions. In Japan, we often avoid saying "no" directly.
Emily: Oh, really? That’s interesting. So how do you say "no" politely?
Kenji: We might say something like, "That might be difficult," or "I’ll think about it," rather than directly refusing.
Emily: That makes sense. I also noticed that in Japan, people don’t talk loudly in public places. Is that considered rude?
Kenji: Yes, being too loud in public, especially on trains, is seen as impolite. But in the U.S., it seems normal to talk and laugh in public.
Emily: Right, we don’t really think about it! I love learning about different cultures—it helps me understand people better.
Kenji: Me too! Cultural differences make the world more interesting.
2. Key Phrases and Expressions
"Is that a common custom in [country]?" – Used to ask about cultural habits.
"[Action] is a sign of respect." – Explaining respectful customs.
"In [country], we usually [custom]." – Describing cultural habits.
"I noticed that in [country], people [behavior]." – Observing cultural differences.
"Is that considered rude?" – Asking about etiquette.
"Cultural differences make the world more interesting." – A good phrase to express appreciation for diversity.
3. Cultural Insights
Non-verbal Communication: Some cultures prefer bowing (Japan, Korea), while others shake hands or even kiss on the cheek (France, Spain).
Direct vs. Indirect Speech: Western cultures tend to be direct, while many Asian cultures prefer indirect communication to avoid conflict.
Personal Space: Some cultures (e.g., the U.S.) prefer more personal space, while others (e.g., Latin America) are more comfortable with close contact.
Public Behavior: Speaking loudly in public is normal in some cultures but considered rude in others.
4. Practice Exercise
Complete the following dialogues with suitable phrases from the lesson.
1. A: In my country, we greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
B: Oh, really? _______________? (Ask if it’s a common custom)
2. A: In Japan, people bow instead of shaking hands.
B: Oh, I see. _______________. (State that bowing is respectful)
3. A: In the U.S., people are quite direct when speaking.
B: That’s interesting. In my country, _______________. (Describe indirect speech)
Answers:
Is that a common custom in your country?
Bowing is a sign of respect.
We often avoid saying "no" directly.
5. Discussion Questions
Have you ever experienced cultural differences when traveling or meeting someone from another country? How did you handle it?
What are some cultural habits in your country that might surprise foreigners?
Why do you think learning about different cultures is important?
By practicing these expressions and discussing cultural differences, you can improve your ability to communicate in English while gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures!
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