【明報專訊】Eason is eating with people belonging to different religions. He tries to be cordial but eventually seems disrespectful.

“ Eason: Don't be shy, guys. Just take whatever you want! ”

“ Eason: This is the best dish! Try it! ”

“ Arab friend: Thank you. I am fine. Please keep it for yourself and others.”

“ Eason: Why? Don't you like it? ”

“ Dr Panda: Eason, some don't eat pork for one reason or another. The same idea applies to everything. All are free to make their own choice.”

“ Eason: I'm sorry. ”

■ Culture tips

Some people do not eat certain kinds of food for religious reasons. Both followers of Islam (伊斯蘭教) and those of Judaism (猶太教) do not eat pork. They are forbidden from consuming pork or even touching a pig carcass. It may not be possible to know another person's reason for not eating a certain kind of food, but it is always courteous to respect his or her food choice.

(see photo C)

■ English highway﹕forbidden

If a person is forbidden from doing something, he is not allowed to do it. If something is forbidden, it is not allowed.

e.g. Passengers are forbidden from drinking or eating on a train.

■ Glossary

cordial (adj) 熱情友好的

disrespectful (adj) 不尊敬的

carcass (n) 動物的屍體

courteous (adj) 禮貌的