I often hear Americans refer to the British as being rude. However, I think what this really comes down to is kind of cultural misunderstanding of each others sense humour. Specifically it involves the British fondness for sarcasm, irony, and understatement in every day conversation. For example: "Nice weather we are having" - when its actually a howling storm outside, or "Aren't you a nice person" - when you mean someone is being horrible or mean.
Many Brits on the other hand perceive American sincerity as being evidence of them having a feeble mind. Obviously that is entirely unfair, since I believe Americans are genuinely sincere. It's weird how when British people say something that is overly sincere, it comes across as sarcastic to us.
Culturally America and Britain are linked in so many ways, but sometimes it feels like we live on different planets. Do you agree/disagree.
Have a nice day! (Sarcasm intended)
@Rocket, I kind of like your passive-aggressive behaviour theory - but honestly British people can be straight forwardly aggressive too, when push comes to shove. Perhaps we just have a different tipping point.
Many Brits on the other hand perceive American sincerity as being evidence of them having a feeble mind. Obviously that is entirely unfair, since I believe Americans are genuinely sincere. It's weird how when British people say something that is overly sincere, it comes across as sarcastic to us.
Culturally America and Britain are linked in so many ways, but sometimes it feels like we live on different planets. Do you agree/disagree.
Have a nice day! (Sarcasm intended)
@Rocket, I kind of like your passive-aggressive behaviour theory - but honestly British people can be straight forwardly aggressive too, when push comes to shove. Perhaps we just have a different tipping point.