Definition-

Are you a proficient (CEFR level C1) English learner? You can practise reading in this part to improve your comprehension of lengthy, complicated books that cover a wide range of topics, some of which may be unfamiliar. Specialized articles, biographies, and summaries are examples of texts.

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Example-

The bulk of the world's businesses today operate across international borders, and while English is used as a common language by most of them, the nuances and expectations of business communication can vary dramatically between cultures. Unfair judgments, misinterpretations, and communication breakdowns might emerge from a lack of knowledge about the cultural norms and practises of our business colleagues. Here are three fundamental areas where business etiquette varies around the world that you should be aware of when working with someone from a different culture.

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Addressing someone 

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German and British trainees engaged in a heated discussion over this subject during a training session on whether it was suitable for someone with a doctorate to use the corresponding title on their business card. The British trainee insisted that anyone expecting to be addressed as "Dr." who isn't a doctor is pretentious and full of themselves. The German trainee, however, contended that because of their dedication and years of study, they should have every right to demand to be addressed as "Dr."

This extreme difference of opinion over something that might be thought of as minor and thus easily disregarded proves that we frequently give even the most commonplace actions importance. We may respond more strongly when things that we are used to are done differently. When meeting someone for the first time in a professional setting, many Continental Europeans and Latin Americans prefer to be addressed with a title, such as Mr. or Ms., and their last name. However, Americans, and increasingly the British, now tend to prefer using their first names.The best course of action is to pay attention to how your conversation partner addresses you, and if you are still unclear, don't be hesitant to inquire about it. 

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Smiling 

According to a well-known Russian saying, "a grin without reason is a sign of foolishness," and in Russia, a so-called "smile of respect" is frequently viewed with mistrust since it is perceived as being forced. However, smiling is widely employed to break the ice in nations like the United States, Australia, and Britain where it is frequently seen as a show of openness, camaraderie, and respect.

In a study on smiles across cultures, the researchers discovered that persons who smiled were regarded as smarter than those who did not smile in nations including Germany, Switzerland, China, and Malaysia. However, images of smiling faces were evaluated as less intelligent than those without smiles in nations including Iran, South Korea, Japan, and Russia. Meanwhile, smiling was considered dishonest in nations like India, Argentina, and the Maldives.

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Conclusion-

Each lesson includes a model text with writing tips, and tasks to test your understanding and practice various writing skills. Begin right away. Hope that this article helped you and for more information on relevant topics you can visit the SpeakoClub website and can learn and explore more about English speaking and writing.

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