Differences Between American and French
Culture

As any American who has traveled to France can tell you, there are many differences between American and French culture. However, once you understand and recognize cultural differences, you may well come to appreciate or even revel in how the French view the world.

L'assemble nationale is a source of French patriotism.

As you travel to France, keep in mind that while you might recognize something as a cultural difference, you shouldn't judge it as right or wrong. There is a tendency as one is adjusting to a new culture to hit a period of annoyance--where you find the cultural differences to be, backwards or wrong. However, keeping yourself from thinking in terms of "good" or "bad" and instead thinking in terms of "different" or "similar" will help you get along more easily.

America often prides itself on being a "melting pot." There are cultural celebrations to honor many different ethnicities and in general, there is a certain pride about being multi-cultural by definition. Not only can you hear at least a few different languages when you're out and about, but you can also hear an entirely different dialect of English depending on where in the United States you are.

While you will not find France to be homogenous in terms of ethnicity, the French are fiercely protective of the language and traditional French culture. While the French can certainly be described as hospitable, there is an expectation that outsiders should conform to French social customs. While a faux pas may be graciously ignored (or more likely, politely corrected), it's not to be seen as "acceptable."

In America, it is very easy to get through a day without being flirtatious. Flirting is not part of the day to day interactions between men and women. While it can't be said that Americans never flirt with married men or women, it's certainly not looked on in general as acceptable. Rather a relationship of that nature--even if it's innocuous--is hidden from public view.

In France, flirting and flattery is commonplace and is often done without the sexual undertones that you might find in the United States. Simply garnering the attention or flattery of a man doesn't necessarily mean that he wants to go home with you. Women too are also allowed to flirt although it tends to be men that are generally more flattering and flirtatious.

It's very important to understand that not all of this flirting leads back to the bedroom. It's simply reflective of a way of treating and viewing women. While some Americans might find it off putting, in general you can feel free to smile or say "thank you" without feeling like you might be too encouraging. Of course if you want to encourage and reciprocate the attention--you can always smile and respond back.

This is an area where Americans can often get themselves into trouble. It is well worth the effort to learn some of the more commonly accepted etiquette in France so as not to offend. When in doubt, take a cue from your French hosts or simply ask. To the French it is much less rude to ask, "What should I bring to dinner," than it is to show up with nothing. Keep in mind that there is an etiquette to be followed with almost every daily interaction--from shopping in a boutique, to dining etiquette at a restaurant. Americans generally fell like the gracious thing to do might be to ignore a faux pas or politely instruct. . .however, the French feel like the gracious thing to do is to learn how not to make them in the first place. In fact, while dining or similar situations, you will find that your French pals might take the lead politely demonstrating the proper way to do things. It is likewise polite to take the cue and follow suit.

There are many wonderful differences between American and French Culture. The ones that affect your daily life in France are the most important to pay attention to. Remember, if you are unsure how to respond--watch to see what your French friends do. The French tend to be very gracious when someone is demonstrating a desire to learn about their culture.

• Romantic French Words
• French Greeting Words
• French Spring Words
• French Verb Quiz: To Leave
• Famous French Sayings Quiz

• French Love Quotes
• French Love Phrases
• How to Say Goodbye in French
• Funny French Phrases
• Popular French Sayings

• History of French Wine and Cheese
• Learning Canadian French
• Quebec French Lexicon
• The Easy French Interview
• French Word for You