Learning how to be polite in a new culture can be tricky. Every country seems to have its own way of doing things so it is important to know a few key phrases that you can use during your homestay. London is a big city with lots of people, and being polite and friendly is a great way to start making new friendships. It’s also important to build a good relationship with your hosts at your homestay. London manners are easily learned – just use this simple guide and you’ll be on your way!
How to Say ‘Hello’
As in most places, there are many ways to say ‘hello’ in English. It all depends on who you’re talking to. For example, you would use something more casual if you were greeting a friend or fellow student, such as ‘hi’ or ‘hey’. However, addressing a lecturer or tutor might require something a little more formal. It’s important to treat teachers and host parents with respect.
Here are some examples of more formal greetings:
•‘Good morning/afternoon/evening’
•‘Goodbye’
•‘Have a nice day’
Mindful Manners
It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, manners are always appreciated and they are especially valued in the UK. No matter who you’re talking to, using ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ will go a long way in any situation. So whether you’re speaking with new friends or asking a lecturer for some feedback on an essay, always remember your manners.
Some Polite Phrases
While minding your manners is important to build a positive relationship with your host family during your homestay, London natives and fellow students will also appreciate polite behaviour. Here are a few extra phrases to keep in mind that will help get your study abroad experience off to a good start.
•‘Excuse me’ – in a busy city, knowing how to get through crowds politely is extremely useful. ‘Excuse me’ is far more polite than ‘move out of the way’.
•‘I would like’ – this is a useful phrase in a social setting. For example, if you’re hanging out with some new friends from lectures, ‘I would like to get a coffee’ is better than ‘I want’.
•‘Can you pass me…’ – you’ll use this phrase a lot at home and in the classroom. Replace commands like “give me the book” with “can you pass me the book” and you will get a friendlier response.
•Titles – knowing how to address someone will be valuable when interacting with lecturers and university staff. You’ll probably send a few emails to your teachers; address male teachers with ‘Mr’ (Mister) and females with ‘Mrs’ or ‘Ms.’ (Ms. is more general and is a safe option if you’re unsure about their marital status.)
Use these polite phrases every day and it will soon become second nature during your homestay. London may be big but it’s a friendly and inclusive city, and minding your manners always helps!
Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant and offers advice to young people looking for London-based student accommodation, whether they prefer Halls of Residence or a private homestay. London has a wide range of options when it comes to student living, and Sophie’s expert tips and tricks never fail to put aspiring residents at ease. Her knowledge stems from her first-hand experience studying in the city and living on a budget, so she is more than qualified to support others doing the same.
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