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Social Etiquette in the USA

Are you planning to visit the U.S. in the near future? Since every country has its own set of "dos" and "don'ts", it's worthwhile to find out just what it means to be polite before getting on that plane. Here are a few of the most important rules of behavior.

1 If you are meeting someone for the first time, extend a hand to say hello. Americans greet each other with firm handshakes. Kissing on the cheek is rare, but hugs are not unusual between friends or relatives. Also, it is important to make eye contact while speaking with someone; otherwise you will seem rude or insincere. Use titles, such as "Dr. Smith" or "Mr. Norris", to show respect, unless someone invites you to use their first name. Address a woman as "Ms." (as in "Ms. Banks") if you aren't sure if she is married or not.

2 When Americans ask how you are, they don't expect a long reply about your recent headaches or your sore throat. "How are you?" is a typical greeting that asks for a simple answer such as "I'm fine." You may compliment a person on their new Cha haircut or shirt, but never tell someone that they look tired or unwell unless you are really afraid that they may be Ill. Don't ask someone how much money they make or how much money they've spent on something. Also, never talk loudly on a cellphone in public, and be aware that some

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consider taking a phone call during mealtimes to be extremely rude.

3 Giving a peace sign, thumbs up, or okay sign are all positive gestures. Using your index finger to point at someone is impolite: instead, extend your entire hand, palm facing up. Americans like to give wide smiles, even to strangers! In the U.S., a smile is a sign of friendliness and even politeness. So, if someone smiles at you, return the gesture! However friendly Americans may seem, though, they still prefer that you don't get too close to them. Keep a distance of about 2 feet from people, unless you are in a crowded place.

4 Sharing a meal with Americans shouldn't be a stressful event. Nevertheless, there are a few things to remember when you find yourself at a dinner table. If someone invites you over for a meal, bringing a small gift, like flowers, is a nice token of thanks. Make sure to arrive on time, and if you must be late, call your host to apologize. Always wait until everyone has food in front of them before you start eating, and remember to keep your elbows off the table. Also, it is very important to keep your mouth closed while chewing: Americans think talking with a mouth full of food is rude and disgusting. If you eat in a restaurant, expect to pay your waiter a tip that is 15-20 percent of the bill, even if the service is second rate.

extend, firm handshake, rare, hug, make eye contact, typical, greeting, in public, be aware, crowded place, token, elbow, second rate

1 Have you ever been to the

U.S.? Do you know the dos and don'ts of American etiquette?

.. Listen and read to find out.

2 Match the headings to the paragraphs. There is one extra heading.

A Learn the Gestures

B Make Small Talk

C Thank your Host

D Say Hello

E Dine with Ease