Question

Britons may like to complain a lot, but they rarely do so right now, explains BBC writer Ruth Margolis. They would rather grumble (发牢骚) afterward. This is because Britons hate to put someone out and cause any embarrassment. Margolis writes, “For instance, I’m much more comfortable just leaving that piece of raw chicken on my plate instead of complaining to restaurant staff. But beware: if this kind of thing happens when you’re dining with an American, they will most likely speak up on your behalf and not understand why you find this ashamed.”

In a BBC blog post comparing cultural differences between the UK and the US, Margolis mentions a few other things that Americans like to do that are offensive to Britons.

● Not making introductions

Margolis says most Britons dislike this approach because “talking to strangers without being introduced gives them a stomachache”. Americans rarely introduce a new friend to their friends at parties. Strangers are supposed to introduce themselves.

● “Quite” good

Using “quite” to mean “very” happens a lot in the US. But if you are invited to a dinner party in Britain, don't describe the meal as “quite good” if you want to express high praise. To Britons’ ears, “quite” detracts from the “good”: the meal was OK but could have been better.

● Money Talk

Americans can talk about money subjects for hours without feeling uncomfortable. For Britons, says Margolis, “Talking about how much we make is unthinkable — even 1ess so than discussing our feelings.”

● Over-politeness

“It’s not that I want shop assistants to be actively rude. But neither do I want to expend energy responding to someone who's been paid to ask: ‘How are you today?’” says Margolis. In the US, it is not unusual to be greeted by a perfect stranger as “honey” or “sweetie”. But Margolis says Britons find put-on friendliness, especially in stores, deeply irritating.

1.Margolis’ dining experience in Paragraph 1 shows that_______.

A. Britons are particular about foods

B. Britons are not good at complaining

C. Americans usually complain directly

D. Americans complain more than Britons

2.Which of the following might Margolis agree with?

A. Britons enjoy talking about their feelings.

B. Americans introduce themselves at parties.

C. Americans dislike talking to strangers at parties.

D. Britons feel happy if treated like close friends.

3.The underlined phrase “detracts from” in the text probably means ____.

A. differs greatly from B. increases the quality of

C. reduces the strength of D. draws attention away from

4.What does the text mainly talk about?

A. How to get on well with westerners.

B. How to start conversations with Britons.

C. Ruth Margolis’ tips on public behavior.

D. Some American habits that annoy Britons.

Answer 1