Etiquette Around the World Quiz

In this country, bowing when meeting someone instead of shaking hands is a custom.

• Japan

• Italy

• Brazil

• Canada

Answer explanation

In Japan, bowing is a traditional greeting, reflecting respect and politeness, unlike the handshake common in many Western cultures. This custom distinguishes Japan from the other countries listed.

In this country, tipping in restaurants is considered rude, as good service is already included in the price.

• United States

• Japan

• France

• Mexico

Answer explanation

In Japan, tipping is seen as rude because excellent service is already included in the price of meals. This contrasts with countries like the United States, where tipping is customary to reward service.

In this country, slurping noodles is considered a compliment to the chef.

• Thailand

• China

• Germany

• Argentina

Answer explanation

In China, slurping noodles is a traditional way to show appreciation for the meal, indicating that the food is enjoyable. This cultural practice distinguishes it from other countries where slurping may be considered rude.

In this country, giving and receiving gifts with both hands is polite.

• India

• South Korea

• Spain

• Australia

Answer explanation

In South Korea, it is customary to give and receive gifts with both hands as a sign of respect and politeness. This cultural practice emphasizes the importance of gestures in social interactions.

In this country, eating with the left hand is considered impolite.

• Egypt

• Sweden

• Russia

• Vietnam

Answer explanation

In Egypt, cultural norms dictate that eating with the left hand is considered impolite, as the left hand is associated with uncleanliness. This contrasts with other countries like Sweden and Russia, where such customs are not prevalent.

In this country, being late to a social event is normal and expected.

• Germany

• Brazil

• United Kingdom

• Japan

Answer explanation

In Brazil, social events often have a relaxed attitude towards time, making it common for guests to arrive late. This cultural norm contrasts with countries like Germany or Japan, where punctuality is highly valued.

In this country, looking directly into the eyes of the elderly is considered disrespectful.

• Canada

• South Africa

• South Korea

• Italy

Answer explanation

In South Korea, cultural norms dictate that looking directly into the eyes of the elderly is seen as disrespectful, reflecting a deep respect for age and authority. This contrasts with the other countries listed.

In this country, placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered bad luck.

• Thailand

• Japan

• United States

• Turkey

Answer explanation

In Japan, placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice resembles a funeral ritual, making it a symbol of bad luck. This cultural belief distinguishes Japan from other countries listed.

In this country, pouring your own drink is considered impolite; instead, you should pour for others and wait for them to pour for you.

• South Korea

• Mexico

• Greece

• France

Answer explanation

In South Korea, it is customary to pour drinks for others as a sign of respect, and pouring your own drink is seen as impolite. This cultural norm emphasizes the importance of social harmony and consideration for others.

In this country, leaving uneaten food at the host's meal is considered rude as it may imply that you do not like the food.

• Vietnam

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Germany

Answer explanation

In Vietnam, leaving uneaten food is seen as disrespectful, suggesting disapproval of the meal. This cultural norm emphasizes the importance of hospitality and appreciation for the host's efforts.