Abstract

Table manner is an important part in cross-cultural communication and food culture. The differences in food culture cause the differences between China and the West. Knowing the differences and the origins of table manners between China and the West, people can not only enhance the understanding of the target language culture, but also can do very well in cross-cultural communication. The dissertation mainly introduces the differences in table manners and food culture. Then discusses the main reasons for this phenomenon, and so that it can help people avoid making inappropriate behavior which may make people misunderstand.

Key words: China and the West; table manners; food culture; main reasons;

differences

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction .1

2.Food Culture of China and the West .2

2.1 Food Culture in China.2

2.2 Food Culture in western countries.2

3.Differences of Food Culture between China and the West.2

3.1 Differences in concepts.2

3.2 Differences in contents of diet.3

3.3 Differences in diet styles.3

3.4 Differences in cooking methods4

3.5 Differences in dinning forms.4

4. Main Reasons Causing Different Food Cultures .4

4.1 Geographies.4

4.2 Traditions  ...5

4.3 Customs. .5

5. Differences of Table Manners between China and the West.6

5.1 Differences in tableware6

5.2 Differences in seating arrangement.6

5.3 Differences in arrival of time7

5.4 Differences in table atmospheres .7

5.5 Differences in language and behaviors at table7

6. Main Reasons Causing Different Table Manners8

6.1 Collectivism and individualism8

6.2 Different ways of thinking8

6.3Different cultural connotations and religions9

7. Conclusion.9 

References.10