【明報專訊】People greet each other in different ways all around the world. Make sure you learn the correct greeting etiquette to create a good first impression.

Handshake

A handshake is the most popular form of greeting. In the US, you offer a firm handshake as a sign of power and formality.

Kiss

In continental Europe, a kiss on the cheek is a usual form of greeting. Moreover, a hand-kiss was considered a respectful way for a gentleman to greet a lady. In Latin America, a man may offer his hand to a woman, and he may "kiss" the top of her hand.

Bow

Bowing is prominent in Asian cultures. Japanese bow to each other as a sign of respect. The most common practice is probably a small bow of the head. If you are greeted with a bow, respond by bowing in kind.

Palms together

In both Thailand and India, you'll be greeted with two palms together with a slight bow as a sign of respect. It is called "wai" in Thai and "namaste" in Indian.

■Glossary

formality (n) 正式

respectful (adj) 尊敬的

prominent (adj) 重要的

respond (v) 回應

[Smarties' Power English 第237期]