7 Social Norms That Are Completely Different Around the World
Discover how everyday behavior, like tipping, greeting, or standing in line, can flip from polite to puzzling across cultures, revealing the fascinating diversity of global social norms!
- Alyana Aguja
- 3 min read
Social norms govern our interactions, yet what is polite in one society is perplexing or even offensive in another. From no tipping in Japan to standing alone in Brazil, these practices illustrate the captivating ways in which cultures differently understand everyday behavior. Learning these differences prevents not only uncomfortable situations but also allows for greater cultural appreciation and understanding.
1. Tipping Etiquette
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Tipping is regarded as obligatory in the United States, and 15-20% is usually anticipated in restaurants. In Japan, tipping is regarded as rude because there is the perception that excellent service is an inherent part of service etiquette. Providing a tip there may puzzle or offend the staff.
2. Eye Contact
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In Western societies, such as the U.S. or Germany, direct eye contact signifies confidence and truthfulness. However, in some Asian nations, such as Japan and South Korea, extended eye contact is seen as confrontational or disrespectful. Individuals may avert stares to express politeness and respect.
3. Queuing Behavior
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In the UK, standing in an orderly and polite queue is nearly a national pastime, and “queue-jumping” is considered extremely rude. In other locations, however, such as China, queues might be more fluid, particularly in crowded zones such as train stations, where forcefulness may be necessary to get an available spot. What is rude in one culture may be mere practicality in another.
4. Personal Space
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In nations such as the United States and Canada, personal space is to be respected, and standing in close proximity could make individuals feel uneasy. However, in nations such as Brazil or India, more physical closeness when conversing is usually regarded as an indicator of warmth and amiability. What may be intrusive in one culture is an expression of closeness in another.
5. Eating with Hands
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In Ethiopia and some parts of India, it’s customary to eat with your hands, and it’s regarded as a method of bonding with food. Using fingers or bread to scoop up dishes is acceptable and is perceived as a courteous cultural behavior. In contrast, in Western societies, dining by hand (apart from for foods such as burgers or fries) may be perceived as inappropriate or informal.
6. Greeting Customs
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In France, greetings with cheek kisses (la bise) are common, even among acquaintances, with the number of kisses varying by region. However, in the U.S. or Germany, a handshake is the more standard and professional greeting. In some Asian cultures like Thailand, a respectful bow known as the “wai” is the norm.
7. Talking Volume
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In Spain or Italy, loud and expressive speaking is typically a mark of enthusiasm and involvement in discussion. In contrast, in such nations as Japan or Finland, loud public conversation is discouraged, as it is not conducive to social harmony. What is considered energetic in one society may be viewed as disruptive in another.