Cultural awareness quiz

In Japan, is it common to send money to friends when they lose a loved one?

• Yes, it is a way to show sympathy.

• No, it is considered impolite.

• Only if they ask.

• Only during festivals.

Answer explanation

In Japan, sending money to bereaved friends is a kind gesture to show you care, similar to how Vietnamese families might give support during funerals. It’s a way to help during a sad time.

In Indonesia, is it acceptable to shake hands with women?

• No, that is not allowed.

• Yes, that is completely normal.

• Only with family members.

• Only in a business environment.

Answer explanation

In Indonesia, shaking hands with women is generally okay, especially in formal or friendly settings. In Vietnam, handshakes are also common when meeting someone new, but always be polite and gentle.

Is the number 4 considered lucky in Japan?

• Yes, very lucky.

• No, it is an unlucky number.

• It depends on the individual.

• It is a neutral number.

Answer explanation

In Japan, the number 4 is unlucky because it sounds like the word for “death.” In Vietnam, we also avoid certain numbers, like 7 in some contexts, because of superstitions.

In Saudi Arabia, is it permissible to eat with the left hand?

• Yes, that's normal.

• No, that's forbidden.

• Only at home.

Answer explanation

In Saudi Arabia, eating with the left hand is considered impolite because the left hand is used for personal hygiene. In Vietnam, we don’t have this rule, but we respect table manners like using chopsticks properly.

Do Mexicans put their hands on the table when eating?

• No, that is impolite.

• Yes, that is polite.

• Only during formal dinners.

• It doesn't matter.

Answer explanation

In Mexico, keeping hands on the table shows good manners. In Vietnam, we also value table etiquette, like not pointing chopsticks at others, to show respect during meals.

In England, how do you tilt the plate when eating soup?

• Towards you.

• Away from you.

• To the left.

• To the right.

Answer explanation

In Britain, you tilt the soup plate away from you to scoop the last bit politely. In Vietnam, we slurp noodle soup loudly to show we enjoy it, but in Britain, quiet eating is preferred.

Do Spanish people like to maintain eye contact when talking?

• No, that is rude.

• Yes, it shows interest.

• Only with friends.

• Only with family.

Answer explanation

In Spain, looking someone in the eyes during a conversation shows you’re listening. In Vietnam, we also make eye contact to show respect, but we might look away to be polite with elders.

In Thailand, is a pale face considered beautiful for women?

• No, it doesn't matter.

• Yes, it is a sign of beauty.

Answer explanation

In Thailand, a pale face is seen as beautiful, often linked to not working in the sun. In Vietnam, many people also value fair skin and use sunscreen or hats for protection.

Do Germans like deadlines?

• No, they prefer flexibility.

• Yes, they value deadlines.

• Only in school.

• Only in business.

Answer explanation

Germans like to plan and meet deadlines to stay organized. In Vietnam, we also respect schedules, like submitting homework on time, to show responsibility.

Is punctuality strict in Mexico?

• Yes, punctuality is very important.

• No, it's more relaxed.

• Only for work.

• Only for school.

Answer explanation

In Mexico, people are often more flexible with time, especially for social events. In Vietnam, we try to be punctual for school or work, but family gatherings might be more relaxed.