Intercultural Competence Questions! Trivia Quiz
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Questions and Answers
- 1.
A "thumbs up" in some Islamic countries is a rude sexual sign.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In some Islamic countries, giving a "thumbs up" gesture is considered a rude sexual sign. This cultural difference stems from the interpretation of the gesture, which may vary across different regions and societies. It is important to be aware of and respect cultural norms when traveling or interacting with individuals from different backgrounds.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Forming an “O” with the thumb and the forefinger in Japan means that we can now discuss money.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In Japan, forming an "O" with the thumb and forefinger is a gesture commonly used to indicate that it is now acceptable to discuss money. This cultural gesture serves as a signal to initiate conversations about financial matters. Therefore, the statement "Forming an 'O' with the thumb and the forefinger in Japan means that we can now discuss money" is true.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Scandinavians are more tolerant to silent breaks in conversations.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Scandinavians are known for their cultural value of silence and their comfort with pauses in conversations. In Scandinavian countries, silence is often seen as a way to show respect, give others space to think, and allow for deeper reflection. This cultural norm promotes a more relaxed and less pressured atmosphere during conversations, making Scandinavians more tolerant to silent breaks. Therefore, the statement that Scandinavians are more tolerant to silent breaks in conversations is true.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Laughter in Japan can be a sign of confusion, insecurity, or embarrassment.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In Japan, laughter can be interpreted as a sign of various emotions such as confusion, insecurity, or embarrassment. This cultural difference highlights that laughter does not always indicate happiness or amusement in Japanese society. It is important to be aware of these nuances in order to understand and communicate effectively with Japanese individuals.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In the UK, to compromise is seen as a positive sign of both parties winning.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
(But it is not seen the same way in the U.S. Congress!)Rate this question:
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- 6.
Wearing gloves in Russia when shaking hands is considered polite.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
In Russia, it is not considered polite to wear gloves when shaking hands. This is because wearing gloves can create a barrier between individuals and is seen as a sign of formality or distance. In Russian culture, shaking hands is a personal and warm gesture, and wearing gloves can be seen as a lack of trust or intimacy. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Leaving right after dinner in Central America is considered well-mannered as it means you’ve been well fed.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
However, this same action is considered rude in the U.S. and an insult to your hosts.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, it is normal to arrive half an hour late for dinner.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In many cultures, the higher your social status the later you are expected or allowed to arrive at a scheduled event.Rate this question:
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- 9.
If you tell your female friend from Africa that she’s put on weight during her holiday, it means she’s had a good holiday and is physically healthier than when she left.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
How do you think an American woman would react if you commented on her weight gain, whatever compliment you were intending to pay? Would it ever be acceptable in the U.S. to discuss a woman's weight in a social or professional setting?Rate this question:
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- 10.
In Brazil, flicking your fingers under your chin is a sign of disgust.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
It means you don't know the answer to a question in Brazil. In Italy, it means f*** you.Rate this question:
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- 11.
If you want to show your respect for an elder in Africa, do not look them directly in the eye.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In many cultures, looking someone directly in the eyes mean you perceive you have equal social standing. In the U.S., not looking someone directly in the eyes means you are hiding something or are being untruthful.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Keeping your hands in your pockets while negotiating in Russia is rude.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Keeping your hands hidden implies you are being dishonest.Rate this question:
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- 13.
It is seen as polite to not accept an offer of food or drink in Persia (Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan) immediately on being offered it, instead you should refuse a few times before accepting the gift.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In fact, you should decline three times and accept the fourth time it is offered. In the U.S., you would be offered something once, and if you decline, it would not be offered again. Could you see how this would lead to a major misunderstanding about courtesy and respect if neither party understood the social conventions of the other?Rate this question:
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- 14.
In France, dinner is commonly served at 5 pm.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Most countries have a dinner hour later than what is common in the U.S.Rate this question:
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- 15.
In Brazil, purple flowers are a symbol of friendship.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Purple flowers are for funerals. In Japan, white is the color associated with death.Rate this question:
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- 16.
In Mediterranean cultures, being boisterous in the streets and public places is widely accepted.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In Mediterranean cultures, it is widely accepted to be boisterous in the streets and public places. This suggests that people in these cultures are generally comfortable with expressing themselves loudly and energetically in public settings. This cultural norm may stem from a sense of community and a desire for social interaction and engagement. It is important to note that cultural norms can vary greatly across different regions and societies, and what may be considered acceptable behavior in one culture may not be in another.Rate this question:
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- 17.
In Australia, a single male passenger should sit in the back seat.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
This question has the greatest number of people who get it wrong. In many culture, the person to whom you want to show the most respect sits in the back. In just as many countries, the opposite is true. So, how do you handle this if you are traveling with your boss and you have the choice of sitting in the front or the back seat? YOU HAVE YOUR BOSS CHOOSE FIRST. Don't assume that he or she will automatically choose the one YOU think should go to the person in authority. Leave it up to the most senior person present to decide.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Aug 18, 2011Quiz Created by
Bhoutz