Cultural differences and body language - 6 Minute English

Summary

In this episode of 6 Minute English, hosts Neil and Tim explore the nuances of non-verbal communication across cultures. They discuss the phrase 'no hard feelings,' which is used to maintain friendly relations after a dispute. The conversation delves into the meaning of 'to fall out,' emphasizing the importance of understanding after disagreements. They highlight how gestures, like shaking one's head, can have different meanings in various countries, with Bulgaria being noted for its unique interpretation. The show also touches on the concept of a 'faux pas' and the potential for cultural misunderstandings, using a story from Professor Erin Meyer's experience in Dubai. The hosts conclude with a quiz question about non-verbal cues and a review of the key vocabulary, encouraging viewers to reflect on the day's topics.

Takeaways

• 😀 'No hard feelings' is a phrase used to indicate a desire to remain friendly after an argument.
• 🤔 'To fall out' is another way of saying to have an argument or disagreement.
• 🤷‍♂️ In some cultures, using gestures while speaking is common, while in others it might be considered unusual.
• 🙅‍♀️ Shaking your head, which generally means 'no', can mean 'yes' in certain countries like Bulgaria.
• 🤝 Greetings and body language can significantly differ across cultures, and misunderstandings can lead to social faux pas.
• 😳 A 'faux pas' refers to an embarrassing social mistake, such as offending someone unintentionally.
• 🤗 'Offend' means to upset or anger someone, often due to a social misstep or inappropriate behavior.
• 👋 'Gesture' is a non-verbal cue made with the hands or head to communicate thoughts or feelings.
• 🏃‍♂️ 'Gesticulate' is the act of making broad or forceful gestures, often to emphasize a point.
• 😌 'Expressive' describes someone who shows their thoughts or emotions openly and clearly.

Q & A

What does the phrase 'no hard feelings' mean in the context of the conversation?

In the context of the conversation, 'no hard feelings' is something you say to somebody you have argued with to indicate that you still want to maintain a friendly relationship.

What does it mean to 'fall out' with someone?

To 'fall out' with someone is another way of saying to argue or disagree with them.

Why did Tim think his arm-waving during an argument was 'not very British'?

Tim thought his arm-waving during an argument was 'not very British' because using gestures or movements with hands or head to express thoughts or feelings is common in some cultures but not typically associated with British behavior.

What is the quiz question Neil and Tim discussed in the script?

The quiz question Neil and Tim discussed is: 'In which country does shaking your head mean 'yes'?'

What is the correct answer to the quiz question about shaking your head meaning 'yes'?

The correct answer to the quiz question is Bulgaria.

What is a 'faux pas' in a social context?

A 'faux pas' is saying or doing something embarrassing in a social situation that can potentially offend or upset others.

What does the term 'expressive' mean and how is it used in the script?

The term 'expressive' means showing what you think or feel. In the script, it is used to describe someone who is emotionally expressive, such as the man giving directions in Dubai.

What is 'gesticulating' and how is it demonstrated in the script?

'Gesticulating' refers to making gestures with your hands or arms to express what you're feeling. In the script, it is demonstrated when the man and the student are shouting and waving their arms to communicate with each other.

What is the significance of the thumbs-up gesture in the context of the script?

In the context of the script, the thumbs-up gesture, which is commonly used to signal approval or agreement, might offend people from the Middle East, indicating that the same gesture can have different meanings in different cultures.

Why was Professor Erin Meyer initially worried when she saw her student and a man on the street shouting and gesticulating at each other?

Professor Erin Meyer was initially worried because she thought they were having a fight, but it turned out they were just being emotionally expressive while giving directions.

What is the importance of understanding cultural differences in gestures as discussed in the script?

Understanding cultural differences in gestures is important to avoid misperceptions and miscommunications that could lead to social faux pas or offend people from different cultures.