Make a comparative table with “dos” and “don’ts” concerning manners at mealtime in the Spanish-speaking world and in los Estados Unidos.

Question

GPT-4o mini · Answer

Here is a comparative table outlining the "dos" and "don'ts" concerning manners at mealtime in the Spanish-speaking world (considering general practices as they can vary by country) and in the United States. | **Category** | **Spanish-Speaking World (Dos and Don’ts)** | **United States (Dos and Don’ts)** | |----------------------------|----------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | **Table Setting** | **Do:** Use formal table settings, often with multiple utensils.
**Don't:** Arrive without an invitation or unprepared. | **Do:** Use simple table settings, typically with fewer utensils.
**Don't:** Use too many plates or bowls; it's usually simpler. | | **Beginning the Meal** | **Do:** Wait for the host to say "buen provecho" or start the meal.
**Don't:** Start eating before everyone is served. | **Do:** Wait for the host to invite everyone to start.
**Don't:** Eat before others have received their food. | | **Eating Etiquette** | **Do:** Keep hands on the table but not elbows; finish everything on the plate.
**Don't:** Chew with your mouth open or make loud noises. | **Do:** Keep elbows off the table; it’s okay to leave a small amount of food.
**Don't:** Use your phone or engage in loud conversations while eating. | | **Conversation** | **Do:** Engage in lively conversation; sharing stories is common.
**Don't:** Discuss sensitive topics (politics/religion) openly unless everyone is comfortable. | **Do:** Keep conversation light and friendly; ask about others.
**Don't:** Dominate the conversation or talk with your mouth full. | | **Drinking** | **Do:** Toast (brindis) before drinking, especially at formal gatherings.
**Don't:** Drink without acknowledging others at the table. | **Do:** Raise your glass for a toast on special occasions.
**Don't:** Drink from your glass without toasting, if appropriate. | | **Ending the Meal** | **Do:** Thank the host and offer to help clean up.
**Don't:** Leave without saying goodbye. | **Do:** Thank the host for the meal and help with cleanup.
**Don't:** Leave the table abruptly or forget to thank the host. | This table highlights general customs in each context, but it's important to remember that individual preferences can vary, and customs may change based on specific cultures or social settings.