what not to say to americans / myLot

Nepal

January 25, 2007 6:38am CST

I have heard from many people of East that it is easier to talk with Americans than other. You can talk about anything you like if they give you approval. However, the Americans get angry immediately,when they find somebody saying "I DON'T KNOW" for their asking. Generally, they would like to ask about directions.They would demand some helping words in response always.

1 person likes this

5 responses

hiswillnotmywill

@hiswillnotmywill (260)

• Philippines

4 Feb 07

i think it depends on what situation. for instance, if you call a technical support of your computer manufacturer and wanted some help from them and basically answers you with "i don't know" it is aggrevating. I mean, its their job to know those things to help you out with your technical problem, or if it's beyond their support boundary a suggestion to what can be done should at least be given so that you know which step is next. But if its just a mere simple conversation and you ask someone and answers you "i don't know" that's okay as other's have mentioned its best that you tell the truth than pretend knowing.

p8ntballr21

@p8ntballr21 (857)

• United States

4 Feb 07

I am not bothered if someone doesn't know directions. If anything I rather them tell me they don't know instead of saying something that will get me lost even more.

Lydia1901

@Lydia1901 (16351)

• United States

31 Jan 07

Well, I guess that doesn't bother me when someone tells me that they do not know. I guess maybe it bothers some other Americans and I happen to not be one of them.

americans

754937286506548667

@754937286506548667 (815)

• Italy

2 Feb 07

strange i've never heard this think. howwer i've asked to my american friends and he said it'isnt true

thescribbler

@thescribbler (386)

• United States

3 Feb 07

I would rather someone tell me they don't know than lie and make something up. Sure, it can get frustrating if you ask three people for directions and all three say "I don't know." But I don't think that's strictly an American characteristic. Can't speak for all Americans, but this American doesn't have a problem with it.