Table Manners From Around the World

Our world is comprised of a great number of countries, an array of cultures and rich traditions. No two countries have the same customs which makes our world very wonderful, though perhaps also confusing . Well, confusing in what way? Have you ever traveled to a foreign country and been unsure of the customs and proper etiquette ? If you've ever been a stranger in another country, you may have found yourself embarrassed at times if you were unfamiliar with the local rules and customs. What is normal in one country may be viewed as totally disgusting in another country. Let's explore some table manners and etiquette from around the world!

While eating meals, Koreans use chopsticks and a spoon. Most Western countries use a fork and knife at the dinner table. But have you ever given thought to which hand to use while you eat?

In India, people traditionally don't use any cutlery while eating their meals. If done correctly, eating with your hands is a technique that is not as messy as it may seem. In northern India, the food should only be touched with your fingertips , and is considered rude if it touches anywhere above the knuckles of your hand. Indians believe that eating with a clean hand is much more hygienic than eating with a fork or chopsticks. It is also believed that the diner can pay closer attention to the food and enjoy the meal more if they use their hands.

Let's now take a look at American dining etiquette. In America, it is considered very rude using your hands to eat, unless it is some type of finger-food such as pizza, chicken fingers or bread. It is stressed in American culture that you should not chew with your mouth open, nor talk while there is food in your mouth. Americans also think it is very rude if you rest your elbows on the table while eating a meal. Most Americans think it is important to wait until everyone is served before you start eating your meal. Lastly, if you don't finish everything on your plate, it is often a sign that you did not particularly like the food.

In France, adding condiments to a dish before even tasting it may be really insulting to the chef . Many French believe that condiments hide the taste of the meal. While eating in France, it is always polite to have both of your hands visible at all times. In French restaurants, it is often common for ladies to sit in the chairs with their backs to the wall, while men sit in chairs that face the ladies and the wall. When you've finished eating a meal in France, put your knife and fork on the plate together in the middle.

It may seem extremely confusing trying to remember all of the different customs and proper etiquette while eating. But if you ever get the chance to eat in a foreign country, don't be too nervous because you may just lose your appetite. People will most likely understand that you are from a different country and are unaware of their table manners. Perhaps they'll even try to teach you the customs of their country, and you can return the favor by teaching them some from Korea!

VOCABULARY BANK

array
• noun an impressive display or range of a particular thing.
etiquette
• noun the code of polite behavior in a society.
unfamiliar
• adjective not having knowledge or experience of.
disgusting
• adjective arousing revulsion or strong indignation.
cutlery
• noun knives, forks, and spoons used for eating or serving food.
technique
• noun a way of carrying out a particular task, a procedure that is effective in achieving an aim.
messy
• adjective untidy or dirty.
knuckle
• noun a part of a finger at a joint where the bone is near the surface
hygienic
• adjective promoting or conducive to hygiene; sanitary.
condiment
• noun a seasoning or relish for food, such as salt or mustard.
insult
• verb /insult/ speak to or treat with disrespect or abuse.
chef
• noun a professional cook, especially the chief cook in a restaurant or hotel.
visible
• adjective able to be seen or noticed.
extreme
• adjective to the highest degree; very great; highly unusual; exceptional.
unaware
• adjective having no knowledge of a situation or fact.
favor
• noun approval or liking; an act of kindness beyond what is due or usual.

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