Cultural differences in greeting

I. Introduction

Sociologist Erving Goffman regards greeting as a sign and identification

of the beginning of communication. It has the function of showing attention,
and suggesting a type of relationship or social status between individuals or
groups of people coming in contact with each other, according to Wikipedia.
Although greetings are exchanged all around the world, the kinds and
applications of them can vary greatly based on the cultures involved. This essay
will give a brief review of the greeting custom in America and Japan, with the
sole focus of comparing them.

II. Content

1. The greeting custom in Japan.

1.1 . Overview of the greeting custom in Japan.

In terms of Japanese greetings, it contains a lot of etiquette and aspiration.

In their daily interactions with one another, the Japanese place a high priority on
being courteous and respectful to others. People bow or simply nod as they
greet one another. There are four different bowing styles that are conventionally
used. Each stands for a certain feeling, such as gratitude, remorsefulness, and
respect. Generally, the deeper the bow is, the more gratitude or appreciation is
being shown. Most Japanese people do not expect foreigners to know the proper
bowing rules, therefore simply nodding is often enough. Handshakes are rare,
but there are exceptions, especially in international business situations.

1.2. Reasons why Japanese prefer bowling as a greeting custom.

There are many reasons why Japanese people bow their heads when
starting a communication with other people, however, the main reason is still to
show their respect. Interaction and communication in Japan is not only
expressed by words but also by body language. The gesture of bowing while
communicating in Japan is sometimes even more valuable and meaningful than
words. It is not only a habit but also a cultural symbol of the land of cherry
blossoms, creating self-esteem and dignity for the entire nation.

2. The greeting custom in the United States.

2.1. Overview of the greeting custom in the United States.

Regarding the United States's greeting culture, noticeably, it is more easy-

going than that of Janpan as the US is a Western country. Both men and women
usually smile and shake hands when greeting. The American handshake is
usually firm. Good friends and relatives may embrace when they meet,
especially after a long absence. In informal situations, people may greet rather
than shake hands. Friends also greet each other from afar. Americans may greet
strangers on the street with "Hello" or "Hello," although they may pass by
without saying anything. Among young people, intimate greetings or slapping
or punching gestures are common.

2.2 Reasons why American prefer informal greetings.

American greetings are generally quite informal, which is not intended to

show a lack of respect but rather a manifestation of the American belief that
everyone is equal. It may conflict with the Asian tradition of respect for
politeness and modesty, such as in Japan; however, it doesn’t mean that
Americans are arrogant or rude. They just often value efficiency more than
politeness.

III. Conclusion

As mentioned above, greetings play an integral role in communication

and different countries can have different greeting cultures. In Japan, which
represents for Eastern countries, the greeting custom is formal and often based
on social status and relationships whereas in Western countries such as the
United States, it is more informal and easy-going. It is important that people
respect the greeting customs of every country and put effort into maintaining
and preserving it.