3.1 Taboos & Etiquette

This greeting includes sticking out tongues, to prove that it is not black (or not guilty of wicked actions)

• Aztec in Mexico

• Tibetans in China

• Inuit in Canada

• Aboriginals in Australia

Answer explanation

The greeting involving sticking out tongues is a traditional practice among Tibetans in China, symbolizing the demonstration of innocence and non-malicious intent, distinguishing it from other cultures.

Smiling without a reason, especially showing your teeth when doing so, is considered rude or strange.

• United Kingdom

• South Africa

• Afghanistan

• Russia

Answer explanation

In Russia, smiling without a reason, especially showing teeth, is often perceived as insincere or inappropriate. This cultural norm contrasts with other countries where smiling is more common and accepted.

It is considered bad luck for a building to have a 13th floor

• United States

• Mexico

• Canada

• Cuba

Answer explanation

In the United States, many buildings skip the 13th floor due to superstition, as the number 13 is often associated with bad luck. This practice is less common in other countries like Mexico, Canada, and Cuba.

Don’t stretch or yawn in public. It is considered extremely vulgar.

• Japan

• Spain

• Argentina

• India

Answer explanation

In Spain, stretching or yawning in public is viewed as impolite and vulgar, reflecting cultural norms around public behavior. This makes Spain the correct answer to the question.

It is against the law to mow your grass on Sundays - you are to be as quiet as possible during this day.

• Korea

• Switzerland

• Philippines

• Brazil

Answer explanation

In Switzerland, there are strict laws regarding noise on Sundays, including restrictions on mowing lawns. This cultural norm emphasizes quietness, making Switzerland the correct answer.

Wearing the color red is reserved for weddings, never wear to funerals.

• Russia

• China

• Italy

• Saudi Arabia

Answer explanation

In China, red symbolizes happiness and is traditionally worn at weddings. In contrast, white is the color associated with funerals. Therefore, wearing red is appropriate for weddings, making China the correct answer.

Never point your shoe/foot to another person. The shoe/foot is

the unclean part of your body

• Thailand

• Taiwan

• Philippines

• France

Answer explanation

In Thailand, it is considered disrespectful to point your shoe or foot at someone, as the foot is viewed as the unclean part of the body. This cultural norm highlights the importance of showing respect in social interactions.

Use of the left hand is considered rude, impure, or even evil in each of the following EXCEPT:

• Japan

• India

• Saudi Arabia

• China

Answer explanation

In China, the left hand is not considered rude or impure like in Japan, India, and Saudi Arabia. Cultural norms regarding hand use are less strict in China, making it the exception among the listed countries.

Slurping your food is considered a sign of appreciation for the food

• France

• Japan

• Iran

• Australia

Answer explanation

In Japan, slurping noodles is a cultural norm that signifies enjoyment and appreciation of the meal. Unlike in many Western cultures, where it may be considered rude, in Japan it is encouraged.

Here it is entirely normal to belch (burp) – especially after a meal has concluded. It is even considered a compliment and a sign of contentment.

• Saudi Arabia

• Mexico

• Italy

• Kenya

Answer explanation

In Saudi Arabia, belching after a meal is culturally accepted and seen as a compliment, indicating satisfaction with the food. This practice highlights the importance of hospitality in Saudi culture.