American Traveler Reveals Shocking Politeness Difference Between US and UK

Cultural Differences in Politeness: An American's Perspective An American traveler recently returned from the UK with surprising observations about the differences in politeness between the two countries. The traveler, who prefers to remain anonymous, shared his experience in a short video that has quickly gained popularity online. He noted that the level of politeness and formality in everyday interactions is significantly higher in the UK. "In the US, it's common to hear 'Can I have...' when making a request," he explained. "But in the UK, it's much more common to hear 'May I have...' This subtle difference highlights a broader cultural emphasis on formality and respect." He also observed the far more frequent use of "please" and "thank you" in the UK. He stated that "You guys are definitely influencing me because now I say 'please' and 'thank you' a whole lot more." This anecdote highlights the potential for cultural exchange to influence individual behavior and attitudes. While acknowledging that politeness exists in both countries, the traveler emphasized the significant difference in degree. The video's popularity suggests a broader interest in cross-cultural comparisons and the nuances of social etiquette.