If someone mentions table manners, you may automatically think of “Don’t talk with your mouth open,” or, “Don’t make inappropriate noises when chewing,” Though these general rules are common for all people around the world, dining rules has become uniquely molded into different cultures.

Take, for example, Englishmen at a proper dinner party. Food should always be tasted first before adding salt or other seasonings, as it is considered an insult to the chef. Likewise, it is also recommended to compliment the meal in a kind gesture to the one who cooked it. The fork is held in the right hand, and the knife should be in the left. As one may expect, the knife must never enter the mouth or be licked. Talking and chewing with one’s mouth opened are also considered impolite. To let another know that one is finished eating, the person would place the fork on the left of the plate and the knife of the right. In addition, napkins should be unfolded on the table. Children are expected to ask permission to leave upon finishing their meal.

Towards the east, Chinese diners have an entirely different set of rules while eating. Seating and serving would be two of the most significant elements in the Chinese culture. During formal meals, the host would offer beverages such as tea to guests. Similar to the customs of European countries, there are communal dishes and bowls of food for people to serve themselves. When one is picking a piece from the communal plate, one should pick the piece closest instead of rummaging around the dish. It is considered bad luck and rude to stick one’s chopsticks into a bowl of rice, as the chopsticks then resemble incense burned to honor the dead.

Table manners are expected when eating, be it at a formal dining party of at home with one’s family. However, it is important to remember that different countries may have different attitudes regarding etiquette. One may offend another with unsuspected rudeness.