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Has anyone else noticed that we as Americans are known for apologizing for nearly everything? I get that it's polite to say "pardon me" or "sorry" when you really need to, but I think we do it a little too much. I just think apologies should be used only when you truly and sincerely mean it.
Has anyone else noticed that we as Americans are known for apologizing for nearly everything? I get that it's polite to say "pardon me" or "sorry" when you really need to, but I think we do it a little too much. I just think apologies should be used only when you truly and sincerely mean it.
you're right, I'm the worst offender of this...sorry
Who are we comparing Americans to in this thread? Do Europeans or whoever else not say "sorry" or "pardon" or "excuse me" if in someone's way, or other situations? Serious question. It's a matter of politeness rather than culture, IMO.
Because we have manners, most of us, anyway. Sorry if that upsets you.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JerseyGirl415
Who are we comparing Americans to in this thread? Do Europeans or whoever else not say "sorry" or "pardon" or "excuse me" if in someone's way, or other situations? Serious question. It's a matter of politeness rather than culture, IMO.
Is politeness really a crime these days? It seems like sometimes people respect you more for being an ***hole rather than being extra polite or kind to someone.
Is politeness really a crime these days? It seems like sometimes people respect you more for being an ***hole rather than being extra polite or kind to someone.
Right? I think politeness sometimes shocks people! In the so called "rude, fast-paced, aggressive" Northeast you'll even find people saying sorry in various situations out of politeness. I'm sure you find this in the Philly area as I do in the New York area… who's shocked by this? Come on, admit it. We're not as rude as everyone likes to claim we are.
Location: NYC based - Used to Live in Philly - Transplant from Miami
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JerseyGirl415
Who are we comparing Americans to in this thread? Do Europeans or whoever else not say "sorry" or "pardon" or "excuse me" if in someone's way, or other situations? Serious question. It's a matter of politeness rather than culture, IMO.
Comparing Americans to some Asian countries, this statement holds true.
When I went to China, people actually bumped me left and right on street.
Well providing it is Beijing, I guess people are very fast-paced.
NONE of them said sorry.
Same in Indonesia (my roots) and Malaysia.
Japanese on the other hand is just like Americans. They say sorry all the time. Not only that, sometimes they will bow down when doing so. Made me feel very uncomfortable.
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