A. Read the text and do the tasks after it.

Britons, and the English in particular, are notoriously undemonstrative. The “stiff upper lip” is not just the stuff of fiction and emotional displays, positive or negative, are generally frowned upon. Gestures such as backslapping and hugging are discouraged and a wide distance should be maintained between participants in a conversation. Maintaining eye contact may be necessary when you are trying to emphasize important points but you must avoid any temptation to “eye-ball”. Talking loudly is unacceptable and shouting is beyond the pale. Some old-fashioned interlocutors may not hear you if you have your hands in your pockets. The Britons do not gesticulate frantically.

Introductions may be tricky. Ideally the British prefer third-party introductions but in certain situations, like a drink party, it may not always be possible and, though awkward, you may just have to go ahead and introduce yourself. Firm handshakes are the norm as part of a formal introduction but may not be expected at subsequent meetings or on social occasions; a gentleman should always wait for a woman to proffer her hand before squeezing it gently. The continental habit of exchanging kisses has gained currently especially amongst the young and the affected but is not recommended for visitors – even the natives are unsure of the correct procedure.

“How do you do?” is a greeting not a question. It is used when people are introduced for the first time only and the correct response is to repeat “How do you do?” Such conventional usage is not to be confused with “How are you?” which is a more or less sincere enquiry as to your well-being.

This emotional detachment or even indifference explains the British abhorrence of Americanisms such as “Have a nice day”. The objection lies not in the sentiment itself but in the lack of sincerity that is implied to the stand-offish British mentality.

If the British use few words, it is because they prefer to mean those they do say. They are polite and courteous for the most part. They expect to be treated with respect, in return for which they will treat you with respect, so: – if there is a queue, go to the back of the line and wait patiently; – do not use the “V” – sign (raising the index and middle fingers) unless you are sure which is the Churchillian version signifying peace or victory (palm outwards); the use of the alternative version (palm inwards) is less common nowadays but is still vulgar and offensive.

A service charge of 10-15% is almost always included in hotel and restaurants bills and you should be wary of establishments that leave the credit card slip open for you to include an additional contribution (if you wish to reward exceptional service give cash directly to the staff). Do not bar staff pubs where there is no table service. Otherwise taxi drivers (especially in London), hairdressers, porters, etc. will expect 10-15 % or a couple of pounds, whichever is the greater.

Task 1. Read the statements and decide whether they are true or false.

1. The English are demonstrative.

2. Gestures such as backslapping and hugging are discouraged.

3. A close distance should be maintained between participants in a conversation.

4. Talking loudly is acceptable.

5. A visitor may not introduce himself.

6. Firm handshakes are the norm as a part of a formal introduction.

7. The continental habit of exchanging kisses is recommended for visitors.

8. ”How are you?” is a greeting.

9. A service charge of 10-15% is almost always included in hotel and restaurant bills.

10. Taxi drivers, hairdressers, porters, etc. will expect 10-15% or a couple of pounds, whichever is the greater.