What would you like to receive as a gift? A bag? A clock? What would you like to give to a friend?

It’s nice to receive a gift, and giving a gift can also be fun. When you choose a gift for someone from a different culture, you should be aware of some rules about gift giving. If not, you may cause some misunderstandings.

In Chinese culture, a clock is not a gift to give. The word “clock” in Chinese sounds like the word for “death”. Also in China, white, blue and black are colors for funerals.
In the Muslim culture, things made of pig skin should not be given. Pigs are considered unclean. On the other hand, in the Hindu culture, you should not give anything made of cowhide. The cow is sacred.

In some cultures, the color or type of flower can have different meanings. Red roses are often considered romantic. But in some Latin countries, yellow flowers show contempt.

Choosing the best gift may seem difficult. But one British expression gives us a hint: “Carrying coals to Newcastle.” Newcastle is a coal-mining town. The people would not be happy to receive coal as a gift. In short, the suggestion is that you should not give something people already have.

There are also other sayings: “You should not give chocolate to Belgians, silver to Mexicans, or scissors to Finns.” Such gifts are considered to common in those countries.

Most importantly, you should remember it’s the thought that counts. After all, your friends will like not only the gift but also the thought behind it!