This TikToker Addressed The Misperception Of French People As “Rude” And Shared How To Behave Politely While In France
Certain mannerisms and behaviors considered customary or “polite” in some cultures may hold drastically different implications in others.
For example, in the United States, it is deemed necessary to tip after services. But, in Japan and South Korea, this action is considered highly insulting.
Another example is the classic “thumbs up” that both American children and adults alike enjoy using. While this hand gesture connotes positivity and acceptance in the U.S., it is the equivalent of giving the “middle finger” in many Latin American and Middle Eastern countries.
And just as other countries view some “typical” American behaviors as uncustomary, American citizens have also been thrown off by different cultural norms.
One extremely common misconception among Americans is that French people are “rude.” Thankfully, one American TikToker who moved to Paris took to social media to address this stereotype.
“I think the French people have mastered the art of being incredibly polite while being incredibly dismissive at the same time,” the user, @ThrivinginParis, began.
“It may surprise you to hear that French people are obsessed with being polite– etiquette, good behavior, being seen as ‘well educated,” the user continued.
The TikToker believes the notion that French people are rude is “rooted in a lack of understanding or awareness of the codes of conduct that dictate French behavior.”
TikTok; pictured above is @ThrivinginParis
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Moreover, she addressed how the perception of “rudeness” is a two-way street.
“You may also be surprised to hear that maybe you are the rude one in their country,” the TikToker said.
She explained that if you ever need help while in France and approach a stranger by saying, “excuse me,” this is already seen as impolite.
“You are already being rude without meaning to because you forgot the magic word– bonjour!” the user explained.
Her informative video reached over two hundred and forty thousand people. It also racked up twenty-six thousand likes. Many commenters agreed with the misperception of French people and also asked for additional tips on French etiquette.
“I spent eight days in Paris several years ago with my two young children, and the only rude people I encountered were other Americans!” wrote one commenter.
“I have never encountered a rude person in France. If I use my basic guidebook of French, I receive nothing but kindness,” added a second user.
“Please teach us all of the etiquettes you have learned!” encouraged a third commenter.
The TikToker did make a follow-up video addressing the top mistakes, or “faux pas,” that tourists make while visiting Paris.
First, they smile too much! The French view smiles as an earned gift to another person. And, tourists are too punctual. Apparently, it is customary to arrive fifteen minutes late when invited to a French person’s home.
Another mistake is the “Irish goodbye.” In France, it is necessary to say goodbye to absolutely everyone at the gathering before leaving.
Additionally, tourists should avoid being impatient at restaurants, using the informal version of “you” in French, and becoming too friendly or “personal” too quickly.
Many hopeful travelers thanked the TikToker yet again for sharing how to be respectful while in France.
“I feel like your page is my crash course on all things French before I take my first trip! Thank you!” commented one user.
“Well done! Yes, yes, yes!” added a second user.
To watch the original TikTok, visit the link here. Or, to learn more about French culture through the eyes of this American TikToker, visit her account linked here.
@thrivinginparis Reply to @momseyeview Part 1 of a series: Rude or polite? #france #travel #emilyinparis #fyp #paris #traveltiktok #cultureshock #culture #whatilearned #travellife #frenchie #holiday #vacation #adventure #solotravel #femaletravel #unpopularopinion
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