The Chinese New Year's celebration, which this year began on January 26th, is one of the major holidays in Chinese culture. How much do you know about this special day? Try your hand at the questions below.
庆祝春节是中国的传统。今年春节是在一月二十六日开始的，是最重要的节日之一。你对此重要日子有何了解？试答以下问题。
Xin Nian Kuai Le! (Happy New Year!)新年快乐！
Questions
问题
1. What Zodiac year is it?
今年是什么年？
2. How many animal signs are there?
一共有多少属相？
3. What are the names of the animals in the Chinese zodiac?
中国属相的名字是什么？
4. What animals dance a traditional part of the New Year's celebration?
什么属相舞是春节的传统舞？
5. What is the Chinese New Year typically called?
中国新年叫什么？
6. How many days does the New Year's celebration last?
春节一般持续多久？
7. How did this holiday originate?
春节是如何开始的？
8. What color is associated with good luck?
什么艳色是喜色？
9. What do Chinese children do when they first get up on New Year’s Day?
中国儿童新年早上起来先做什么？
10. What do the children receive in return?
他们收到什么礼物？
11. What kind of clothing do they wear?
他们穿什么衣服？
12. What do you hear throughout New Year's Day?
春节那天能听到什么？
13. How do people greet each other when they meet?
人们如何问好？
14. What do people eat to bring good luck?
吃什么食物能带来好运？
15. How many animals comprise the Chinese dragon?
中国龙是有多少动物组成的？
16. Name the animals that comprise the dragon’s body.
这些动物的名字是什么？
Answers
答案
1. The Year of the Ox.
牛年。
2. 12.
１２。
3. Rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep/goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.
鼠，牛，虎，兔，蛇，龙，马，羊，猴，鸡，狗和猪。
4. Lion and dragon.
狮和龙。
5. "The Spring Festival."
春节。
6. 30.
３０。
7. Legend has it that long time ago, there was a monster called “Nian,” who would go to villages and eat the children. Pretty soon, parents started putting food outside their houses for the monster so that he would not eat their children. Nian was happy and left the children alone, but he still lurked around the villages, worrying the people. The village people decided to use firecrackers to scare the monster away. This worked, Nian left, and he has never returned. The firecrackers that people set off this as part of this year's New Year's celebration followed a tradition that has existed for thousands of years.
传说很久以前，有个怪物叫年。它去村子里吃小孩子。很快，父母们开始把食物放在门外给怪物吃， 这样它就不会吃小骇子。年很高兴就不吃小孩子了，但是还是不离开村子，让人胆心。村上的人就决定用炮仗来吓走怪物。这真有效，怪物一去不返。从那以后，春节放炮仗就成了中国几千年的传统。
8. Red.
红色。
9. Children first “bainian” to the oldest member of the family in their household (typically grandparents), then they “bainian” to their parents. “Bainian” means show respect towards a person(s) by bowing toward them.
骇子们先给年岁最大的拜年，一般是祖父祖母。完了再给父母拜年。
10. Money in red envelopes.
红包。
11. New clothing.
新衣服。
12. Firecrackers.
炮仗。
13. Xin Nian Kuai Le, Gong Xi Fa Cai! (Happy New Year and make a fortune!)
新年快乐，恭喜发财。
14. Nian Gao (sticky rice cakes, dumplings, fish, and many other foods).
年糕，饺子，鱼和很多其它的食物。
15. 9.
９。
16. The Chinese dragon is made up of:
- the head of a camel,骆驼的头
- the eyes of a devil,怪物的眼睛
- the ears of a cow, 牛的耳朵
- the horns of a stag,鹿的角
- the neck of a snake,蛇的脖子
- the belly of a clam, and 哈蜊的肚子和
- the 117 scales of a carp. 117 片鱼鳞。
With this post, we send you our very best wishes for good luck and prosperity throughout all of the new year. Xin Nian Kuai Le! (Happy New Year!)
我们用此期刊向大家拜年，祝大家新年快乐，恭喜发财。
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Don't Take the Last Donut: A Conversation with Author Judith Bowman
Ming and Nancy recently had the good fortune to interview Judith Bowman, author of the current bestseller Don't Take the Last Donut: New Rules of Business Etiquette
. The book reflects Ms. Bowman’s experience as founder of Protocol Consultants International and her position as a well known etiquette expert. Rather than seeing business etiquette as a “quaint display of good manners,” she—and her many clients in the U.S. and abroad—instead see it as an all-important set of signals that show respect, inspire confidence, and earn trust in order to advance a business relationship. Written for business people, Don’t Take. . . offers valuable information for any professional relationship. We asked Judith about what her extensive experience with international clients has taught her. Excerpts from the interview—and quotes from her very interesting and accessible book--follow.
明和Nancy:有机会电话采访写商务新礼仪这本畅销书的作者：朱迪思.鲍曼。这书反应出朱迪思.鲍曼有名的对商务礼仪的经验和国际咨讯公司创始人的特殊专长。她和她的美外客户对表示尊敬，激发信心和取得信认不看成是商务礼仪的‘礼貌的摆示’，而认为是加强商业关系的重要信号。专门为商界人士所写，商务新礼仪之书给职业关系提供不可估价的信息。我们问朱迪思有关她对国际客户的广交经验教了她什么。以下是从和她的采访中的摘录和她有趣及易读书中的引述。
Ming & Nancy: You’ve dealt with a wide range of clients, both American and international. Have you found that there are any rules of etiquette that apply for all cultures?
明和Nancy : 你和许多美外客户打交道，是否注意到有统一的礼仪所有的文化可以通用？
Judith: Well, you know, etiquette is really just based on the golden rule of treating others as you would like to be treated. In the 17th century, at the time of King Louis XIV, “etiquettes” were signs telling visitors to keep off the castle lawn—they functioned as boundary markers that allowed the visitors to enjoy their visit by indicating expected behavior. And etiquette, as a code of expected behavior, serves the same function today: once people know the acceptable codes of correct behavior, they can focus on, and enjoy, other social activities. In contemporary French, the word “etiquette” means “ticket” or “label,” and-- in the same way and throughout the world--etiquette, as a set of polite behaviors, labels a person and functions as their ticket into a particular world. Basically etiquette is a way to show respect and consideration for others. And to recognize that even little things are significant.
朱迪思：你知道，礼仪是根倨对待别人像你自己喜欢被对待的金则一样。在十七世纪，赂伊厮十四王帝说：‘礼仪’好似告知访者不要上城堡绿地的标记。也作为允许来访者享乐的僵界。礼仪，作为行为准则，现今有同样的功能。一旦人们知道去接受正确的行为准则，他们就能关注，享受其它的社交活动。在当今法语，‘礼仪’之词表示‘门票’或‘标牌’的意思。同样，世界各地，礼仪是一套礼貌的准则，标牌一个人。也起门票的功能，可允许你进如特殊社交圈。基本来讲，礼仪是表示对他人的尊敬和照顾。为达到那一步，既使小事也十分重要。
[From Chapter 1, “Little Things Mean a Lot”--There is nothing little about the little things in business. . . ]
（第一章：小事有很大影响，在生意上是没有微不足道的小事的）
Ming & Nancy: American culture is less than 300 years old. Chinese culture has existed for over 5,000. Has it been difficult for you to help Americans understand the culture and etiquette of such an ancient culture, or to help Chinese clients understand the customs of the United States?
明和Nancy:美国历史还不到３００年。中国有５０００多年的历史。帮助美国人去理解这么悠久的古老文化和礼仪，或去帮助中国客户来理解美国的风土人情，你觉得是有困难吗？
Judith: I think that, especially when you’re dealing with an international context, etiquette always involves being aware of customs and taking the time to learn about the practices and rituals of the other person’s culture.
朱迪思:尤其从国际 情竟角度上看，我认为礼仪总是和注重风土人情，耐心向其它文化学习它们的实践和礼节。
[Chapter 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”--Making] the effort to learn about the culture and traditions of their target country will. . . earn you respect [by] demonstrating respect for your counterpart’s culture and traditional ways.]
（第１３章：国际礼仪－努力学习目标国家的文化和传统会获得敬重。以此表示对对方文化和传统的尊敬。
Judith: In trying to understand other cultures, I think it’s also helpful to keep in mind the distinction between what anthropologist Edward T. Hall calls “high-context” cultures, like China and most of Asia, and “low-context cultures,” associated with Western cultures like American culture. According to Hall, high-context cultures value group effort, rely on nonverbal cues, and—especially—tend to conduct business only after 2 or 3 initial meetings during which the people get to know and trust each other. These meetings allow a Chinese person to evaluate a visitor and are very important since they form the basis for a any successful business relationship in the future. Low-context cultures, by contrast, tend to be more individualistic, emphasize verbal communication, and—having a “here and now” orientation—expect to get down to business at the first meeting.
朱迪思:试着去理解其他文化，我认为时时记住如人类学家爱德化.霍儿所叫的高情竟的区别是十分有用的。象中国和大部分亚洲国家都是‘高情竟’，西方文化如美国文化是‘低情竟’。根据华儿所说，高情竟的文化珍视集体成就，依靠非言词的提示，尤其是等到２－３次会面后有了互相了解而产生信任后才做生意。这些会面允许中国人来衡量来访者。这是非常重要的，因为这是未来生意关系成功的基础。相比来说，低情竟强调个人主义，重视语言沟通，和有’此时此地'的趋向。希望在第一次见面就做生意。
[From Ch. 13: “Travel & International Etiquette”-- In the world, there are two types of cultures known as high context and low context cultures. . . Both cultures represent different ways of conceptualizing and communicating, including language, verbal and nonverbal communication, customs, perceived values, and perceptions regarding time and space.”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。在世界上有高情竟和低情竟的两种文化。这两种文化代表不同的思考和沟通方式，包括语言，语言表达或无言表达，风俗习惯，观察价值和对时间和空间的概念。
Ming & Nancy: What other differences in business customs arise from these different orientations?
明和Nancy:从此不同的倾向，还产生其他做生意不同的习俗吗？
Judith: Actually, there are many. For instance, since China is a high-context culture which is team-oriented and stresses group membership, successful business relationships always begin with the introduction of individuals at the same level in their respective companies by an all-important mutually respected third party. In fact, getting a first meeting in most cultures other than the U.S. usually requires this sort of contact.
朱迪思:实际上，有很多不同习俗。比如，中国是高情竟的文化，注重小组和团体。成功的商业关系总是有第三者来介绍同等职位的公司人员。实际中，除了美国之外，大多文化要求第三者来组织第一次会面。
Another thing that often surprises Americans engaged in any international business, not just in China, is the importance of gifting. It’s really important to know who and when to gift.
另外，使不仅在中国做生的美国国际生意人惊讶的是送礼的重要性。知道送礼的对相和时机是相当重要的。
Ming & Nancy: What kind of gift do you generally suggest?
明和Nancy:一般你推荐什么礼物？
Judith: You know, gifting is really an art unto itself. You really have to put some thought into it—and be aware of cultural taboos that could offend the person who will receive the gift: e.g., a certain color that has negative associations, or a certain number that is considered unlucky. I often suggest giving something that reflects the client’s state or country—e.g., some music, maybe a CD of an orchestra from the client’s home state, presented in a monogrammed leather or silver case. A coffee table book is also a good idea.
朱迪思:你知道，送礼真是一门学问。你真得好好思考。而且要注意的习俗的禁忌有可能冒犯收礼的人。比如某些颜色和数字有不吉利的影示。我经常推荐礼物代表客户的洲或国家。比如音乐，可是客户的家乡音乐CD, 用有雕刻字的皮盒或银盒来装。送放在咖啡桌上的书也是一个好主意。
One other thing Americans should know is that entertainment is a very important part of the business protocol in China. International clients or prospective business partners may be honored with one, or even several, lovely and very formal dinners—banquets really. Sitting around a round table, guests are presented with as many as 20 courses, each one described ceremoniously as it is presented—e.g., “This is an extremely rare mushroom soup,” or “This is a special delicacy: rooster feet. . . .” Many servers stand by attentively throughout the meal, graciously serving with both hands and illustrating the emphasis on ceremony that’s typical of China.
美国人还要知道娱乐是中国做生意的很重要的一部分。国际客户和有希望合作的商业合作人会得到一次或很多次的象宴会似的招待。坐在圆桌上，会有２０多道菜。每上一道菜都得到很礼节性的介绍。比如，‘这是十分稀少的磨菇汤。’或‘这是特殊的佳肴：公鸡的脚。’很多服务员在一旁专心招待，用双手礼貌的端菜端饭，反印出中国特殊注重礼节的形象。
Nancy: And should the visitor acknowledge the hospitality by trying to reciprocate during their visit? Or just acknowledge the hospitality after they’ve returned home? What do you recommend?
Nancy:那客户在访问期间是否应同样回待客家表示感谢？或回去后再表示感谢？你推荐哪种？
Ming: Usually, guests are expected to acknowledge the hospitality they’ve received by offering to host, or gift, a banquet for their host.
明:一般来讲，客户应对东道主有表示，邀请吃饭或送礼物。
Judith: I’d like to add that the visitor should quietly arrange to take care of the bill in advance in order to avoid an awkward moment, eliminating any chance of the bill appearing at the table.
朱迪思:我还要提出客户应该提前安排好付帐单，以免帐单出现在桌子上的尴尬情境。
Ming & Nancy: Given that entertaining is such a big part of business, have you encountered any other cross-cultural “etiquette challenges” with regard to dining?
明和Nancy:看来娱乐是做生意如此重要的一部分，你遇到过其它在宴会时文化交流的’礼仪挑战‘吗？
Judith: Yes. One of the biggest shocks to me when I was in China—and Americans need to know about this—is to be prepared for noises--lots of slurping, elbows on the table, etc., even at formal meals. I remember one particular banquet, hosted by the Mayor of Beijing. I was trying to eat noodles the way I would in the States—sitting up straight, keeping my left hand in my lap, and using the chopsticks to lift the noodles to my mouth, but my American manners were completely inappropriate. Luckily, my Japanese partner, who was our intermediary, caught my eye and very subtly demonstrated to me how to eat noodles by putting the bowl up to my mouth and “shoveling” them in with chopsticks. It’s important to be aware of customs and to demonstrate respect for your host’s culture by making an attempt to follow them.
朱迪思:遇到过。美国人需要作好准备的是吃饭时的声音，这也是我在访问中国时最吃惊的。吃饭时有很多喝汤的声音，胳膊肘放在桌子上，即使在很正式的场合都有。我特别记得由北京市长主持的一次宴会。我试着象在美国时吃面条，坐的直背直腰，把左手放在膝盖上，用筷子挑面条放进嘴里。但是我的美国举止方式是根本不合适的。幸好，我的中间人日本股东看到后，很不引起注意地让我看他如何拿起碗放到嘴边，用筷子把面条‘铲’到嘴里去。意识到风俗习惯和表示对东道主的尊敬试着跟他们去做是十分重要的。
[From Ch. 7: Dining Skills—“There is nothing more ordinary than the business meal; however, whether much business is conducted or not, the table can be both an opportunity and a minefield. . .”]
（第７章：吃饭技巧。商业饭局是很经常的。但是，有没有做到生意，饭桌可变成良机或埋下地雷。）
Ming & Nancy: Can you give an example of one area where problems may occur because the visitor isn’t aware of the customs?
明和Nancy:你能给举个有关客户不知道东道主的风俗习惯而产生问题的例子吗？
Judith: Well, often problems arise with the use of “yes” and “no.” In some cultures, like Japan and China, people will avoid saying the word “no” for risk of offending and will instead say something like “This may not be possible.”
朱迪思:好的。经常出现问题的是和用’是‘和’不‘有关。在一些文化中，如日本和中国，人们避免说’不‘字，以防冒犯东道主，会说‘这不太可能。’
[From Ch. 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”—“[Members of many Asian cultures like China or Japan] will never say no. Because they are a most gracious culture,. . . they will say “Perhaps not at this time” or “This may not be possible.” Read between the lines and understand this subtlety really means no way. . .”]
第１３章：’国际礼仪‘。很多象中国和日本的亚洲文化不会说不字。因为这些文化是最优美的文化，他们会说‘没准这次不行’或‘这可能不行。’试着深入表面，懂得这些含蓄的回答实际是在说绝不可能。‘
Judith: Also, it’s important to be aware that many things like jokes and gestures are culturally specific. What’s funny or symbolic in one country may not be or may have an entirely different meaning in another. Even gestures can mean different things in different cultures. For example, exposing the soles of one’s feet is seen as extremely insulting in many countries, including China. One other area of possible confusion is personal space, or the “comfort zone” between two speakers that is perceived as comfortable. For Americans, it’s usually one arm’s length, but in Asia it’s more like three arms lengths, so this can cause problems.
朱迪思:还有，懂得很多笑话和手势是和文化形影不离的。在一个国家好笑的或有意义的举动， 在另一个国家有可能会有全然不同的意义。甚至举止也可能有不同的意义。比如，展示脚心在很多国家，包括中国，都很不礼貌。另一个容易引起混淆的是个人空间，或两个说话人之间的’舒服区‘。对美国人来讲，一般是一胳膊的距离，但在亚洲，大多超过三个胳膊的距离，这有可能产生问题。
[From Chapter 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”—“Personal space is to be respected at all costs. Please know that personal space. . . varies [from country to country].”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。’个人空间应该不惜成本去尊敬。请注意个人空间可因国家而不同。‘）
Nancy: Exactly. I remember teaching English to international students and running into problems with this same issue when, e.g., a Latin American and a Japanese student would be acting out a dialog in the front of the room: They’d start in the middle of the room, but pretty soon they’d start moving across the room--as the Asian moved back to create more personal space and the Latin tried to move closer to establish less personal space.
Nancy:十分正确。我记得在我教国际学生英语时也遇到同样的情境。例如，一个拉丁美洲的学生和一个日本学生在教室前排演。他们在教室中间开始的，但很快他们就开始往一边移。当亚洲人往后移来争取更多个人空间，拉丁人试着去移近来减少个人空间。
Judith: When I went to China, I was very aware of these different perspectives on personal space, so, I was surprised to see Chinese approach foreigners and request to have their picture taken with them and then put their arm around the visitors as if they were close friends.
朱迪思:当我去中国时，我很熟悉不同的个人空间感。我很惊讶的看到中国人去问外国人，要求和他们一起照像，还把胳膊放在外国人肩上，好似他们是好朋友。
Ming: I think that this kind of thing happens because China is undergoing major cultural changes and so some Chinese people may adopt elements of American culture. Generally, though, I think that the occasion will define what’s appropriate—e.g., more personal space for a business meeting but less for a casual setting or a photo.
明: 我认为这种情景出现是因为中国在经历很大的文化变迁。有些中国人会接受一些美国文化。一般来讲，我认为此事此境会决定什么是合适举动。比如说，生意上用更多个人空间，在比较随便的场合，象照相，就少一些个人空间。
Judith: Yes, but even so, boundaries still pertain. I remember a photo taken with the Mayor of Beijing and and various senior-level people where another, overly-enthusiastic, American visitor grabbed the Mayor of Beijing and put him in a football-style headlock, with his arm around the Mayor’s neck, something that was completely inappropriate.
朱迪思:对。即使如此，还应有间线。我记得和北京市长及其他高级职位的官员照相时，一个过分热情的美国人一把用胳膊把市长的脖子给搂住了，象打橄榄球一样。这样的举动是绝对不合适的。
One other area of cultural overlap is with regard to names. In China, surnames traditionally come before given names--not after, as in the States. However, in recent years, Chinese business people—or those who deal with Westerners on a regular basis, sometimes adopt the American custom and reverse the order, which can sometimes leave the visitor wondering which name is which. When in doubt, always ask. And sometimes Chinese people even take on an American name such as Tom or David to accommodate Western visitors. This is just one of countless things Chinese do to be gracious.
另一个要注意的地方是名字。在中国，家姓传统是在名之前，不是在后，象美国是在名之后。但是，最近，中国的生意人，或那些和西方人打交道的人，有时会采用美国风俗习惯，会把家姓放在名之后。这会导致来访者很多困惑， 不知哪是名，哪是姓。在困惑时，最好问询。而且，有时中国人会取美国名字，象大为或汤母来接纳西方来访人员。这只是中国人好客的无数例子之一。
[Ch. 2, “Introductions”—“Your best bet is to be direct and quietly ask. . . If you ask with sincerity, much is forgiven as you will demonstrate your desire to be appropriate and respectful.”]
（第２章：介绍。你最好的做法是直接并小声地问。如你问时带着诚恳的态度，那么万事多可原谅。因为你想要表示合适行为和尊敬。）
Judith: Tipping seems to be another area where customs are changing. For example, older Chinese may consider tipping insulting, but many younger Chinese have adapted to American ways and are happy to accept tips. One would not be chased out the door for a tip, but there’s an acute awareness of tipping. Many restaurants, and even some cab drivers, now add a gratuity, as in Europe.
朱迪思:给小费也在变化。例如，稍老些的中国人会认为给他小费会觉得是侮辱，但很多年青人已接纳了美国的方式，会十分高兴地接受小费。你不会因为不给小费而被赶出去，但是对给小费是大家都知道的。
Ming: I agree with Judith that people are happy to receive tips, especially if you don’t tip them in front of their bosses!
明:我也和朱迪思一样认为，人们很高兴接收小费，尤其是不在他们的老板面前给小费。
Ming & Nancy: Judith, you’ve given us a lot of wonderful advice for the American doing business abroad. If you were to give a Chinese client who wanted to do business in the U.S. three important pieces of advice, what would they be?
明和Nancy:朱迪思,你给了美国人如何在国外做生意的非常好的建议。如果你给中国人想在美国做生意的三条建议的话，它们会是什么？
Judith: First, that “time is money.” Americans will want to get information and get the deal done: pitch the proposal, counter objections, close the deal. I’d tell them to expect to do business right away.
朱迪思:第一，’时间就是金钱’。美国人要取得信息，把交易做成。先提建议，提出异议，生意成交。我得对中国人的建议是快速做生意。
[Ch. 13: “Travel & International Etiquette”—“Americans operate in a low-context culture and “monochronic” time theme. Time is money. “Let’s do this now.”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。美国人在低情竟的文化中操作，’单一‘时代旋律。时间就是金钱。’我们现在就做。‘）
Second, I’d tell the client that because American business people tend to use of a lot of electronic communication devices—phone, email, text-messaging, etc.— they will be expected to at least be able to do some business by phone.
第二点，我要告诉客户的是，美国生意人一般都愿用电子通讯设备，如电话，电子邮件，打信等。至少用电话来做部分生意是在预料之中的。
[Ch. 5: “Telephone Skills”—“You should dedicate time, effort, and pre-planning before you place your telephone calls. The telephone call is simply another form of presentation, one that is actually more challenging and requires more, not less, prep work.”]
（第５章：电话技术。你应该在打电话之前找出时间，努力，并做提前计划。打电话只是另一种方式的介绍形式。这更具挑战，更需要多做提前准备。
And finally, I’d make them aware that although gifts and entertainment are a big part of international business protocol, they are used much less often in the U.S..
最后，我想让他们知道，礼物和娱乐是做国际生意的很大一部分，在美国就相对用的少多了。
For Americans I’d advise: say “please” and “thank you” frequently, prepare well and in detail for any business dealings or meetings, and remember that the Chinese are very gracious people who value graciousness highly.
和美国人做生意，我要告诉中国客户经常说’请‘和’谢谢‘，在任何谈生意的场合和会面的时机下都要预先作好准备并且要作好仔细准备。
Ming & Nancy: Judith, it’s been wonderful talking with you. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise and some of your international business experiences with us and with our readers.
明和Nancy:朱迪思，这次和你的谈话真是令人愉快。非常感谢你和我们及我们的读者分享你的专家学识和一些你的国际商业经验。
Judith: It was my pleasure to talk to both of you. And thank you for sharing your experience with me, too.
朱迪思:跟你们谈话也是我的享受。也谢谢你们和我一起分享你们的经验。
Here is a link that will allow you to purchase the English-language version of Don't Take the Last Donut: New Rules of Business Etiquette. The Chinese-language version will be available soon.
这是让你购买商务新礼仪英文版的网站：http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1564149293?ie=UTF8&tag=uschiinf-20&
中文版马上就要出版了。
. The book reflects Ms. Bowman’s experience as founder of Protocol Consultants International and her position as a well known etiquette expert. Rather than seeing business etiquette as a “quaint display of good manners,” she—and her many clients in the U.S. and abroad—instead see it as an all-important set of signals that show respect, inspire confidence, and earn trust in order to advance a business relationship. Written for business people, Don’t Take. . . offers valuable information for any professional relationship. We asked Judith about what her extensive experience with international clients has taught her. Excerpts from the interview—and quotes from her very interesting and accessible book--follow.明和Nancy:有机会电话采访写商务新礼仪这本畅销书的作者：朱迪思.鲍曼。这书反应出朱迪思.鲍曼有名的对商务礼仪的经验和国际咨讯公司创始人的特殊专长。她和她的美外客户对表示尊敬，激发信心和取得信认不看成是商务礼仪的‘礼貌的摆示’，而认为是加强商业关系的重要信号。专门为商界人士所写，商务新礼仪之书给职业关系提供不可估价的信息。我们问朱迪思有关她对国际客户的广交经验教了她什么。以下是从和她的采访中的摘录和她有趣及易读书中的引述。
Ming & Nancy: You’ve dealt with a wide range of clients, both American and international. Have you found that there are any rules of etiquette that apply for all cultures?
明和Nancy : 你和许多美外客户打交道，是否注意到有统一的礼仪所有的文化可以通用？
Judith: Well, you know, etiquette is really just based on the golden rule of treating others as you would like to be treated. In the 17th century, at the time of King Louis XIV, “etiquettes” were signs telling visitors to keep off the castle lawn—they functioned as boundary markers that allowed the visitors to enjoy their visit by indicating expected behavior. And etiquette, as a code of expected behavior, serves the same function today: once people know the acceptable codes of correct behavior, they can focus on, and enjoy, other social activities. In contemporary French, the word “etiquette” means “ticket” or “label,” and-- in the same way and throughout the world--etiquette, as a set of polite behaviors, labels a person and functions as their ticket into a particular world. Basically etiquette is a way to show respect and consideration for others. And to recognize that even little things are significant.
朱迪思：你知道，礼仪是根倨对待别人像你自己喜欢被对待的金则一样。在十七世纪，赂伊厮十四王帝说：‘礼仪’好似告知访者不要上城堡绿地的标记。也作为允许来访者享乐的僵界。礼仪，作为行为准则，现今有同样的功能。一旦人们知道去接受正确的行为准则，他们就能关注，享受其它的社交活动。在当今法语，‘礼仪’之词表示‘门票’或‘标牌’的意思。同样，世界各地，礼仪是一套礼貌的准则，标牌一个人。也起门票的功能，可允许你进如特殊社交圈。基本来讲，礼仪是表示对他人的尊敬和照顾。为达到那一步，既使小事也十分重要。
[From Chapter 1, “Little Things Mean a Lot”--There is nothing little about the little things in business. . . ]
（第一章：小事有很大影响，在生意上是没有微不足道的小事的）
Ming & Nancy: American culture is less than 300 years old. Chinese culture has existed for over 5,000. Has it been difficult for you to help Americans understand the culture and etiquette of such an ancient culture, or to help Chinese clients understand the customs of the United States?
明和Nancy:美国历史还不到３００年。中国有５０００多年的历史。帮助美国人去理解这么悠久的古老文化和礼仪，或去帮助中国客户来理解美国的风土人情，你觉得是有困难吗？
Judith: I think that, especially when you’re dealing with an international context, etiquette always involves being aware of customs and taking the time to learn about the practices and rituals of the other person’s culture.
朱迪思:尤其从国际 情竟角度上看，我认为礼仪总是和注重风土人情，耐心向其它文化学习它们的实践和礼节。
[Chapter 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”--Making] the effort to learn about the culture and traditions of their target country will. . . earn you respect [by] demonstrating respect for your counterpart’s culture and traditional ways.]
（第１３章：国际礼仪－努力学习目标国家的文化和传统会获得敬重。以此表示对对方文化和传统的尊敬。
Judith: In trying to understand other cultures, I think it’s also helpful to keep in mind the distinction between what anthropologist Edward T. Hall calls “high-context” cultures, like China and most of Asia, and “low-context cultures,” associated with Western cultures like American culture. According to Hall, high-context cultures value group effort, rely on nonverbal cues, and—especially—tend to conduct business only after 2 or 3 initial meetings during which the people get to know and trust each other. These meetings allow a Chinese person to evaluate a visitor and are very important since they form the basis for a any successful business relationship in the future. Low-context cultures, by contrast, tend to be more individualistic, emphasize verbal communication, and—having a “here and now” orientation—expect to get down to business at the first meeting.
朱迪思:试着去理解其他文化，我认为时时记住如人类学家爱德化.霍儿所叫的高情竟的区别是十分有用的。象中国和大部分亚洲国家都是‘高情竟’，西方文化如美国文化是‘低情竟’。根据华儿所说，高情竟的文化珍视集体成就，依靠非言词的提示，尤其是等到２－３次会面后有了互相了解而产生信任后才做生意。这些会面允许中国人来衡量来访者。这是非常重要的，因为这是未来生意关系成功的基础。相比来说，低情竟强调个人主义，重视语言沟通，和有’此时此地'的趋向。希望在第一次见面就做生意。
[From Ch. 13: “Travel & International Etiquette”-- In the world, there are two types of cultures known as high context and low context cultures. . . Both cultures represent different ways of conceptualizing and communicating, including language, verbal and nonverbal communication, customs, perceived values, and perceptions regarding time and space.”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。在世界上有高情竟和低情竟的两种文化。这两种文化代表不同的思考和沟通方式，包括语言，语言表达或无言表达，风俗习惯，观察价值和对时间和空间的概念。
Ming & Nancy: What other differences in business customs arise from these different orientations?
明和Nancy:从此不同的倾向，还产生其他做生意不同的习俗吗？
Judith: Actually, there are many. For instance, since China is a high-context culture which is team-oriented and stresses group membership, successful business relationships always begin with the introduction of individuals at the same level in their respective companies by an all-important mutually respected third party. In fact, getting a first meeting in most cultures other than the U.S. usually requires this sort of contact.
朱迪思:实际上，有很多不同习俗。比如，中国是高情竟的文化，注重小组和团体。成功的商业关系总是有第三者来介绍同等职位的公司人员。实际中，除了美国之外，大多文化要求第三者来组织第一次会面。
Another thing that often surprises Americans engaged in any international business, not just in China, is the importance of gifting. It’s really important to know who and when to gift.
另外，使不仅在中国做生的美国国际生意人惊讶的是送礼的重要性。知道送礼的对相和时机是相当重要的。
Ming & Nancy: What kind of gift do you generally suggest?
明和Nancy:一般你推荐什么礼物？
Judith: You know, gifting is really an art unto itself. You really have to put some thought into it—and be aware of cultural taboos that could offend the person who will receive the gift: e.g., a certain color that has negative associations, or a certain number that is considered unlucky. I often suggest giving something that reflects the client’s state or country—e.g., some music, maybe a CD of an orchestra from the client’s home state, presented in a monogrammed leather or silver case. A coffee table book is also a good idea.
朱迪思:你知道，送礼真是一门学问。你真得好好思考。而且要注意的习俗的禁忌有可能冒犯收礼的人。比如某些颜色和数字有不吉利的影示。我经常推荐礼物代表客户的洲或国家。比如音乐，可是客户的家乡音乐CD, 用有雕刻字的皮盒或银盒来装。送放在咖啡桌上的书也是一个好主意。
One other thing Americans should know is that entertainment is a very important part of the business protocol in China. International clients or prospective business partners may be honored with one, or even several, lovely and very formal dinners—banquets really. Sitting around a round table, guests are presented with as many as 20 courses, each one described ceremoniously as it is presented—e.g., “This is an extremely rare mushroom soup,” or “This is a special delicacy: rooster feet. . . .” Many servers stand by attentively throughout the meal, graciously serving with both hands and illustrating the emphasis on ceremony that’s typical of China.
美国人还要知道娱乐是中国做生意的很重要的一部分。国际客户和有希望合作的商业合作人会得到一次或很多次的象宴会似的招待。坐在圆桌上，会有２０多道菜。每上一道菜都得到很礼节性的介绍。比如，‘这是十分稀少的磨菇汤。’或‘这是特殊的佳肴：公鸡的脚。’很多服务员在一旁专心招待，用双手礼貌的端菜端饭，反印出中国特殊注重礼节的形象。
Nancy: And should the visitor acknowledge the hospitality by trying to reciprocate during their visit? Or just acknowledge the hospitality after they’ve returned home? What do you recommend?
Nancy:那客户在访问期间是否应同样回待客家表示感谢？或回去后再表示感谢？你推荐哪种？
Ming: Usually, guests are expected to acknowledge the hospitality they’ve received by offering to host, or gift, a banquet for their host.
明:一般来讲，客户应对东道主有表示，邀请吃饭或送礼物。
Judith: I’d like to add that the visitor should quietly arrange to take care of the bill in advance in order to avoid an awkward moment, eliminating any chance of the bill appearing at the table.
朱迪思:我还要提出客户应该提前安排好付帐单，以免帐单出现在桌子上的尴尬情境。
Ming & Nancy: Given that entertaining is such a big part of business, have you encountered any other cross-cultural “etiquette challenges” with regard to dining?
明和Nancy:看来娱乐是做生意如此重要的一部分，你遇到过其它在宴会时文化交流的’礼仪挑战‘吗？
Judith: Yes. One of the biggest shocks to me when I was in China—and Americans need to know about this—is to be prepared for noises--lots of slurping, elbows on the table, etc., even at formal meals. I remember one particular banquet, hosted by the Mayor of Beijing. I was trying to eat noodles the way I would in the States—sitting up straight, keeping my left hand in my lap, and using the chopsticks to lift the noodles to my mouth, but my American manners were completely inappropriate. Luckily, my Japanese partner, who was our intermediary, caught my eye and very subtly demonstrated to me how to eat noodles by putting the bowl up to my mouth and “shoveling” them in with chopsticks. It’s important to be aware of customs and to demonstrate respect for your host’s culture by making an attempt to follow them.
朱迪思:遇到过。美国人需要作好准备的是吃饭时的声音，这也是我在访问中国时最吃惊的。吃饭时有很多喝汤的声音，胳膊肘放在桌子上，即使在很正式的场合都有。我特别记得由北京市长主持的一次宴会。我试着象在美国时吃面条，坐的直背直腰，把左手放在膝盖上，用筷子挑面条放进嘴里。但是我的美国举止方式是根本不合适的。幸好，我的中间人日本股东看到后，很不引起注意地让我看他如何拿起碗放到嘴边，用筷子把面条‘铲’到嘴里去。意识到风俗习惯和表示对东道主的尊敬试着跟他们去做是十分重要的。
[From Ch. 7: Dining Skills—“There is nothing more ordinary than the business meal; however, whether much business is conducted or not, the table can be both an opportunity and a minefield. . .”]
（第７章：吃饭技巧。商业饭局是很经常的。但是，有没有做到生意，饭桌可变成良机或埋下地雷。）
Ming & Nancy: Can you give an example of one area where problems may occur because the visitor isn’t aware of the customs?
明和Nancy:你能给举个有关客户不知道东道主的风俗习惯而产生问题的例子吗？
Judith: Well, often problems arise with the use of “yes” and “no.” In some cultures, like Japan and China, people will avoid saying the word “no” for risk of offending and will instead say something like “This may not be possible.”
朱迪思:好的。经常出现问题的是和用’是‘和’不‘有关。在一些文化中，如日本和中国，人们避免说’不‘字，以防冒犯东道主，会说‘这不太可能。’
[From Ch. 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”—“[Members of many Asian cultures like China or Japan] will never say no. Because they are a most gracious culture,. . . they will say “Perhaps not at this time” or “This may not be possible.” Read between the lines and understand this subtlety really means no way. . .”]
第１３章：’国际礼仪‘。很多象中国和日本的亚洲文化不会说不字。因为这些文化是最优美的文化，他们会说‘没准这次不行’或‘这可能不行。’试着深入表面，懂得这些含蓄的回答实际是在说绝不可能。‘
Judith: Also, it’s important to be aware that many things like jokes and gestures are culturally specific. What’s funny or symbolic in one country may not be or may have an entirely different meaning in another. Even gestures can mean different things in different cultures. For example, exposing the soles of one’s feet is seen as extremely insulting in many countries, including China. One other area of possible confusion is personal space, or the “comfort zone” between two speakers that is perceived as comfortable. For Americans, it’s usually one arm’s length, but in Asia it’s more like three arms lengths, so this can cause problems.
朱迪思:还有，懂得很多笑话和手势是和文化形影不离的。在一个国家好笑的或有意义的举动， 在另一个国家有可能会有全然不同的意义。甚至举止也可能有不同的意义。比如，展示脚心在很多国家，包括中国，都很不礼貌。另一个容易引起混淆的是个人空间，或两个说话人之间的’舒服区‘。对美国人来讲，一般是一胳膊的距离，但在亚洲，大多超过三个胳膊的距离，这有可能产生问题。
[From Chapter 13, “Travel & International Etiquette”—“Personal space is to be respected at all costs. Please know that personal space. . . varies [from country to country].”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。’个人空间应该不惜成本去尊敬。请注意个人空间可因国家而不同。‘）
Nancy: Exactly. I remember teaching English to international students and running into problems with this same issue when, e.g., a Latin American and a Japanese student would be acting out a dialog in the front of the room: They’d start in the middle of the room, but pretty soon they’d start moving across the room--as the Asian moved back to create more personal space and the Latin tried to move closer to establish less personal space.
Nancy:十分正确。我记得在我教国际学生英语时也遇到同样的情境。例如，一个拉丁美洲的学生和一个日本学生在教室前排演。他们在教室中间开始的，但很快他们就开始往一边移。当亚洲人往后移来争取更多个人空间，拉丁人试着去移近来减少个人空间。
Judith: When I went to China, I was very aware of these different perspectives on personal space, so, I was surprised to see Chinese approach foreigners and request to have their picture taken with them and then put their arm around the visitors as if they were close friends.
朱迪思:当我去中国时，我很熟悉不同的个人空间感。我很惊讶的看到中国人去问外国人，要求和他们一起照像，还把胳膊放在外国人肩上，好似他们是好朋友。
Ming: I think that this kind of thing happens because China is undergoing major cultural changes and so some Chinese people may adopt elements of American culture. Generally, though, I think that the occasion will define what’s appropriate—e.g., more personal space for a business meeting but less for a casual setting or a photo.
明: 我认为这种情景出现是因为中国在经历很大的文化变迁。有些中国人会接受一些美国文化。一般来讲，我认为此事此境会决定什么是合适举动。比如说，生意上用更多个人空间，在比较随便的场合，象照相，就少一些个人空间。
Judith: Yes, but even so, boundaries still pertain. I remember a photo taken with the Mayor of Beijing and and various senior-level people where another, overly-enthusiastic, American visitor grabbed the Mayor of Beijing and put him in a football-style headlock, with his arm around the Mayor’s neck, something that was completely inappropriate.
朱迪思:对。即使如此，还应有间线。我记得和北京市长及其他高级职位的官员照相时，一个过分热情的美国人一把用胳膊把市长的脖子给搂住了，象打橄榄球一样。这样的举动是绝对不合适的。
One other area of cultural overlap is with regard to names. In China, surnames traditionally come before given names--not after, as in the States. However, in recent years, Chinese business people—or those who deal with Westerners on a regular basis, sometimes adopt the American custom and reverse the order, which can sometimes leave the visitor wondering which name is which. When in doubt, always ask. And sometimes Chinese people even take on an American name such as Tom or David to accommodate Western visitors. This is just one of countless things Chinese do to be gracious.
另一个要注意的地方是名字。在中国，家姓传统是在名之前，不是在后，象美国是在名之后。但是，最近，中国的生意人，或那些和西方人打交道的人，有时会采用美国风俗习惯，会把家姓放在名之后。这会导致来访者很多困惑， 不知哪是名，哪是姓。在困惑时，最好问询。而且，有时中国人会取美国名字，象大为或汤母来接纳西方来访人员。这只是中国人好客的无数例子之一。
[Ch. 2, “Introductions”—“Your best bet is to be direct and quietly ask. . . If you ask with sincerity, much is forgiven as you will demonstrate your desire to be appropriate and respectful.”]
（第２章：介绍。你最好的做法是直接并小声地问。如你问时带着诚恳的态度，那么万事多可原谅。因为你想要表示合适行为和尊敬。）
Judith: Tipping seems to be another area where customs are changing. For example, older Chinese may consider tipping insulting, but many younger Chinese have adapted to American ways and are happy to accept tips. One would not be chased out the door for a tip, but there’s an acute awareness of tipping. Many restaurants, and even some cab drivers, now add a gratuity, as in Europe.
朱迪思:给小费也在变化。例如，稍老些的中国人会认为给他小费会觉得是侮辱，但很多年青人已接纳了美国的方式，会十分高兴地接受小费。你不会因为不给小费而被赶出去，但是对给小费是大家都知道的。
Ming: I agree with Judith that people are happy to receive tips, especially if you don’t tip them in front of their bosses!
明:我也和朱迪思一样认为，人们很高兴接收小费，尤其是不在他们的老板面前给小费。
Ming & Nancy: Judith, you’ve given us a lot of wonderful advice for the American doing business abroad. If you were to give a Chinese client who wanted to do business in the U.S. three important pieces of advice, what would they be?
明和Nancy:朱迪思,你给了美国人如何在国外做生意的非常好的建议。如果你给中国人想在美国做生意的三条建议的话，它们会是什么？
Judith: First, that “time is money.” Americans will want to get information and get the deal done: pitch the proposal, counter objections, close the deal. I’d tell them to expect to do business right away.
朱迪思:第一，’时间就是金钱’。美国人要取得信息，把交易做成。先提建议，提出异议，生意成交。我得对中国人的建议是快速做生意。
[Ch. 13: “Travel & International Etiquette”—“Americans operate in a low-context culture and “monochronic” time theme. Time is money. “Let’s do this now.”]
（第１３章：国际礼仪。美国人在低情竟的文化中操作，’单一‘时代旋律。时间就是金钱。’我们现在就做。‘）
Second, I’d tell the client that because American business people tend to use of a lot of electronic communication devices—phone, email, text-messaging, etc.— they will be expected to at least be able to do some business by phone.
第二点，我要告诉客户的是，美国生意人一般都愿用电子通讯设备，如电话，电子邮件，打信等。至少用电话来做部分生意是在预料之中的。
[Ch. 5: “Telephone Skills”—“You should dedicate time, effort, and pre-planning before you place your telephone calls. The telephone call is simply another form of presentation, one that is actually more challenging and requires more, not less, prep work.”]
（第５章：电话技术。你应该在打电话之前找出时间，努力，并做提前计划。打电话只是另一种方式的介绍形式。这更具挑战，更需要多做提前准备。
And finally, I’d make them aware that although gifts and entertainment are a big part of international business protocol, they are used much less often in the U.S..
最后，我想让他们知道，礼物和娱乐是做国际生意的很大一部分，在美国就相对用的少多了。
For Americans I’d advise: say “please” and “thank you” frequently, prepare well and in detail for any business dealings or meetings, and remember that the Chinese are very gracious people who value graciousness highly.
和美国人做生意，我要告诉中国客户经常说’请‘和’谢谢‘，在任何谈生意的场合和会面的时机下都要预先作好准备并且要作好仔细准备。
Ming & Nancy: Judith, it’s been wonderful talking with you. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise and some of your international business experiences with us and with our readers.
明和Nancy:朱迪思，这次和你的谈话真是令人愉快。非常感谢你和我们及我们的读者分享你的专家学识和一些你的国际商业经验。
Judith: It was my pleasure to talk to both of you. And thank you for sharing your experience with me, too.
朱迪思:跟你们谈话也是我的享受。也谢谢你们和我一起分享你们的经验。
Here is a link that will allow you to purchase the English-language version of Don't Take the Last Donut: New Rules of Business Etiquette
. The Chinese-language version will be available soon.这是让你购买商务新礼仪英文版的网站：http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1564149293?ie=UTF8&tag=uschiinf-20&
中文版马上就要出版了。
Ming's in the News!
Ming's teaching of Mandarin was recently the subject of an article in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Yin Needs Help! (#2)
Over the years, as the result of our experience and contact with individuals from other countries, we’ve become aware of their frequent need for help to meet the challenges of daily living. In this column, we try to offer advice to “Yin,” a composite of the many professionals, students, and visitors we’ve encountered over the years.
多年来，因我们的经力加上和从他乡友人的交往，我们感到他们应付日常生活的艰难。我们试探给阴提供建议。阴是我们从多年和其他行业的职员，学生和游客交流后创造的人物。
Part I: Overcoming the Language Barrier While Traveling
第一部份：在旅程上克服语言障碍
Q: The friend I wrote about last time, who will be coming to Pittsburgh soon for a 3-month professional seminar, is very worried about flying to Pittsburgh because his English isn’t that good. What can he do if he’s having trouble communicating with the people who work for the airline?
问：上次我写的那个朋右要来匹滋堡进修三个月，怕英语不好，很担心坐飞机来。在有困难和航空人员交流的情况下他能做什么？
A: As people who both work for an airline (Ming) and have traveled extensively (Ming & Nancy), we know that a language barrier can make international travel very stressful. However, there are several things that any international traveler can do to make his/her trip more pleasant. The next 3 columns will offer practical suggestions that will help any traveler.
A: 我（明）给航空公司做事，明和Nancy同时也经常去游玩，我们知道语言障碍能使旅程变得非常困难。但是，世界游人能用几个方法来使旅程变得容易一些。今后的三个期刊会提供实际建义来帮助游人。
Airlines are very aware of language barriers, and they offer passengers a couple of special services to help make their trips easier:
航空公司深知语言障碍，他们提供几个特殊服务来帮助使旅程变得容易一些。
1. MAAS (Meet and Assist Service) – When a passenger books a flight (makes his/her reservations). he/she can request this extra service, which is available to any passenger with special needs. MAAS alerts airline agents that the passenger needs assistance, and an agent meets the passenger when they arrive at the airport.
１. MAAS(接机服务) －当旅客订机票时，可以要求此项特殊服务。任何需此服务的游客都可伸请。MAAS(接机服务) 提醒机场服务员去接机需求此服务的游客。
2. Language Line – Every international airline also offers instant translation of information through Language Line, a telephone service that is available to any passenger upon request.
These special services, which are available to any passenger, should help your friend have an enjoyable trip.
2. 语言线台－每个国际航空公司都使用语言线台提供快速翻译服务。这是提供给需求乘客的电话服务。
(Yin Needs Help #3—How to Avoid Missing Your Flight—will be posted on 2/1.)
(阴需要帮助#3-如何避免误机－会在二月一日登刊。)
If you have any questions or comments about this column—or if you’d like to suggest a question for a future column, please email them to us at: us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com
如对此期刊有问询或评注－或想对以后期刊有提议，请发电给我们， 电址是：us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com。
多年来，因我们的经力加上和从他乡友人的交往，我们感到他们应付日常生活的艰难。我们试探给阴提供建议。阴是我们从多年和其他行业的职员，学生和游客交流后创造的人物。
Yin asks: What can an international traveler do to have a enjoyable trip?
阴问：国际游人如何才能有个快乐的旅程？Part I: Overcoming the Language Barrier While Traveling
第一部份：在旅程上克服语言障碍
Q: The friend I wrote about last time, who will be coming to Pittsburgh soon for a 3-month professional seminar, is very worried about flying to Pittsburgh because his English isn’t that good. What can he do if he’s having trouble communicating with the people who work for the airline?
问：上次我写的那个朋右要来匹滋堡进修三个月，怕英语不好，很担心坐飞机来。在有困难和航空人员交流的情况下他能做什么？
A: As people who both work for an airline (Ming) and have traveled extensively (Ming & Nancy), we know that a language barrier can make international travel very stressful. However, there are several things that any international traveler can do to make his/her trip more pleasant. The next 3 columns will offer practical suggestions that will help any traveler.
A: 我（明）给航空公司做事，明和Nancy同时也经常去游玩，我们知道语言障碍能使旅程变得非常困难。但是，世界游人能用几个方法来使旅程变得容易一些。今后的三个期刊会提供实际建义来帮助游人。
Airlines are very aware of language barriers, and they offer passengers a couple of special services to help make their trips easier:
航空公司深知语言障碍，他们提供几个特殊服务来帮助使旅程变得容易一些。
1. MAAS (Meet and Assist Service) – When a passenger books a flight (makes his/her reservations). he/she can request this extra service, which is available to any passenger with special needs. MAAS alerts airline agents that the passenger needs assistance, and an agent meets the passenger when they arrive at the airport.
１. MAAS(接机服务) －当旅客订机票时，可以要求此项特殊服务。任何需此服务的游客都可伸请。MAAS(接机服务) 提醒机场服务员去接机需求此服务的游客。
2. Language Line – Every international airline also offers instant translation of information through Language Line, a telephone service that is available to any passenger upon request.
These special services, which are available to any passenger, should help your friend have an enjoyable trip.
2. 语言线台－每个国际航空公司都使用语言线台提供快速翻译服务。这是提供给需求乘客的电话服务。
(Yin Needs Help #3—How to Avoid Missing Your Flight—will be posted on 2/1.)
(阴需要帮助#3-如何避免误机－会在二月一日登刊。)
If you have any questions or comments about this column—or if you’d like to suggest a question for a future column, please email them to us at: us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com
如对此期刊有问询或评注－或想对以后期刊有提议，请发电给我们， 电址是：us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com。
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Yin Needs Help! (#1)
Over the years, as the result of our experience and contact with individuals from other countries, we’ve become aware of their frequent need for help to meet the challenges of daily living. In this column, we try to offer advice to “Yin,” a composite of the many professionals, students, and visitors we’ve encountered over the years.
多年来，因我们的经力加上和从他乡友人的交往，我们感到他们应付日常生活的艰难。我们试探给阴提供建议。阴是我们从多年和其他行业的职员，学生和游客交流后创造的人物。
Yin asks: Where can a person take ESL classes in the evening/weekend?
Q: A friend of mine will be coming to Pittsburgh soon for a 3-month professional seminar, and he wants to receive some additional ESL help to improve his English. How can he find out what’s available?
阴问：人们晚间或周末去什么地方能上英语课？我有个朋右要来匹滋堡参加三个月的职业会义。他想再接受一些英语陪训来提高他的英语。他怎么能得到有关信息？
A: Pittsburgh offers a wealth of ESL resources to international students and visitors—in part because the University of Pittsburgh has a program that trains ESL instructors, and many of them stay in Pittsburgh after they graduate. These resources include daytime classes, evening classes, and individual tutoring. The cost of these varies ranges from college tuition (expensive) to free. The website for Carnegie Mellon University’s Intercultural Communication Center--http://www.cmu.edu/icc/family/index.shtml--contains a list of the resources available. We hope that your friend enjoys his stay in Pittsburgh!
匹滋堡给国际学生和游客提供很多有关学英语作为第二语言的服务。因为匹滋堡大学有陪训学英语作为第二语言的老师，很多老师毕业后就呆在匹滋堡了。这些服务包括日间，晚间和私人辅导课，学费从免费到很贵的大学学费。Carnegie Mellon 大学智能信息中心的网站：http://www.cmu.edu/icc/family/index.shtml--提供一个服务系例表。我们希望你的朋右会喜欢匹滋堡。
If you have any questions or comments about this column—or if you’d like to suggest a question for a future column, please email them to us at: us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com
如对此期刊有问询或评注－或想对以后期刊有提议，请发电给我们， 电址是：us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com。
多年来，因我们的经力加上和从他乡友人的交往，我们感到他们应付日常生活的艰难。我们试探给阴提供建议。阴是我们从多年和其他行业的职员，学生和游客交流后创造的人物。
Yin asks: Where can a person take ESL classes in the evening/weekend?
Q: A friend of mine will be coming to Pittsburgh soon for a 3-month professional seminar, and he wants to receive some additional ESL help to improve his English. How can he find out what’s available?
阴问：人们晚间或周末去什么地方能上英语课？我有个朋右要来匹滋堡参加三个月的职业会义。他想再接受一些英语陪训来提高他的英语。他怎么能得到有关信息？
A: Pittsburgh offers a wealth of ESL resources to international students and visitors—in part because the University of Pittsburgh has a program that trains ESL instructors, and many of them stay in Pittsburgh after they graduate. These resources include daytime classes, evening classes, and individual tutoring. The cost of these varies ranges from college tuition (expensive) to free. The website for Carnegie Mellon University’s Intercultural Communication Center--http://www.cmu.edu/icc/family/index.shtml--contains a list of the resources available. We hope that your friend enjoys his stay in Pittsburgh!
匹滋堡给国际学生和游客提供很多有关学英语作为第二语言的服务。因为匹滋堡大学有陪训学英语作为第二语言的老师，很多老师毕业后就呆在匹滋堡了。这些服务包括日间，晚间和私人辅导课，学费从免费到很贵的大学学费。Carnegie Mellon 大学智能信息中心的网站：http://www.cmu.edu/icc/family/index.shtml--提供一个服务系例表。我们希望你的朋右会喜欢匹滋堡。
If you have any questions or comments about this column—or if you’d like to suggest a question for a future column, please email them to us at: us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com
如对此期刊有问询或评注－或想对以后期刊有提议，请发电给我们， 电址是：us_chinaconnections@yahoo.com。
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
A Fish in the Sea, A Bee in a Hive
Alek Suni, a 17-year-old from Murrysville, PA, and former Mandarin student of Ming’s, has spent the last 3 months in China, traveling and working as an au pair. In the post below, he write of explosive New Year celebrations, how Beijing is like the Andes Mts., and eating baked scorpion and duck cheeks.
Alek Suni, 十七岁， 从 宾州Murrysville来。他是明的中文学生，前三个月在中国给人做家教。他写了一刊庆祝新年的文张。描写了北京如何象Andes山，吃烤蝎虫和鸭嘴。
BANG! goes the firecracker or M-80 or, heck, maybe its a grenade for all my ears can tell. Everybody's excited. I can't see or breathe because there is so much smoke. What seem like missiles are fired up through the tight spaces between adjacent apartment buildings. Ma Wei (my host) comes walking up to me smiling, "They almost blew up my car!" He seems rather amused by this, as do the rest of the onlookers and participants, most of whom also have cars, children or apartment windows in peril.
噼！鞭炮放了，或者是M-80. 哼，我听起来也象是手镏惮。个个都很激动。因为烟很多，我看不见动西也喘不了气。看上去象火箭的东西从窄窄的大楼之间被点放上天。马纬（我的房主）边向我走来边笑着说：“他们几乎把我的车给崩了。他好象很好玩， 就如其他旁观者或放鞭炮的人。他们的车，骇子和公寓门窗大多都在风险之下。
And this is Beijing. People are crazy, but generally seem happy, especially if it’s the last day of Chinese New Year celebrations. I guess it’s possible that they are obediently happy, instead of like a Westerner who sits somewhere on a spectrum between being genuinely happy and just whining all the time. And what my dad said was true: people actually do stop in the middle of four lane highways just to lean against the trunk and discuss how to proceed from their fresh fender bender.
这就是北京。人门像似疯了，但总的来说都很快乐，特别是庆祝新年的最后一天。我猜想人门守规具似的快乐，不像西方人坐在快乐和抱怨之间。我爸爸说的是事实，有些人会停在四条高速公路中间，靠在车库上讨论如何去找到新车杠。
Because of its immense size, Beijing is sporadically chaotic. All in all, it’s a humbling place. When I walk on the street, I am just a fish in the sea. When I observe this sea from the 22nd floor of my high rise, I am a bee in a hive. People sometimes refer to sprawling metropolises as “concrete jungles,” but when I look out the window at the tiny people below and the expanse of huge buildings that stretch the horizon wider and wider until my face collides with the green-tinted pane, it seems to be more of a concrete mountain range. I would have to say that this city is nothing like a jungle, but has just the right topography--hazy but cloudless skies--and lack of foliage to remind me of the Andes.
因为它的规摸，北京有些乱糟糟的。总的来讲，这是一个谦卑的城市。当我在街上走，我是像大海里的一条小鱼。当我在我住的二十二层楼往下看，我像蜂窝中的一个小蜜蜂。有时人门说不断扩张的都市像”水泥热带森林“，但当我从绿玻璃窗往外看到小不点的人和巨大的高楼越建越远，高楼看上去更像水泥山群。我得说这城市一点也不像热带森林，但且有合适得城市风格。灰蒙蒙的，没有云采的天空。缺少绿叶使我回想到Andes.
Oh, and I guess I should tell you guys what I've been eating. Last night at dinner I chewed on hard fish eyes until the sweet juice came out. Then out came the whole baked scorpions, which stuck to my teeth. The exoskeleton is crispy, making the stinger harmless but delicious. I had three (they were small though). They are good for your health. The duck hearts were amazing! Definitely better than I expected. Livers were gross as always. There was jiaozi (dumplings) too, but of course that's not as out of the ordinary. Today for lunch I chewed on duck cheeks and then scraped the brains out of the sawed-open skull with my canines. Breakfast includes oily greens and bits of rabbit for dunking in rice soup, or twisted bread and eggs to be dipped in bean curd. Maybe one of those was a lunch...they sort of run together in my head. It’s not fruit loops, but it’s still very good. I haven't gotten sick once yet. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
哦，我应该告诉你门我吃的东西。昨晚晚饭我嚼鱼眼腈直到甜汁淌出来了。然后端出了一盘烤蝎虫。蝎虫沾在了我的牙上。虫骨头很脆，虫刺失去了扎人的功能，很好吃。我吃了三个（它门很小）。吃此很益身。鸭肝很有趣，肯定比我想像的好吃。肝脏总是很恶心。也有铰子，但不出色。今天 的中饭我吃了鸭嘴，然后用牙啃吃了鸭脑。早饭吃了油乎乎的青采，一点兔肉沾在粥里吃。或吃油条和鸡蛋沾豆腐。也有可能其中之一是中饭，我脑子里已分不清了。这不是果条，但还是很好吃。止今我还没吃坏，让我门交叉手指（好运的意思）。
Monday, May 26, 2008
East Meets West
US-China Information recently had the opportunity to interview Dr. Su, a Chinese doctor who's been in the States for 6 months and is now working as a medical researcher at the University of Pittsburgh. In this interview, Dr. Su graciously shares some of her experiences and reflects on life in the U.S. [In the previous post, West Meets East, American writer Kristin Bair O’Keeffe answers the same questions as Dr. Su does here.]
中美信息最近有幸采访苏医生。苏医生已居住在美国六个月， 现在匹兹堡大学做医学研究。 在采访中，苏医生分享她在美国的经历［在前文刊， 西方与东方相遇，美国作家Kristin Bair O'Keeffe回答和苏医生同样的问询。］
US-C Information: You probably did a fair amount of research before you moved from China to the States. Of the information that you learned, what was most helpful?
US-C Information: What information did you not have that you wish you had had?
Dr. Su: If you are going to work in America, you really have to know about your field of study, and to be able to talk about it--not just about your particular area, but also about how the field as a whole is developing in the U.S. This is especially important in the sciences or medicine because they develop so fast.
US-C Information: Was there any organization that helped you when you first arrived in Pittsburgh?
Dr. Su: I had several friends here who had been here for many years, and they arranged everything for me. It’s especially important to find a place to live before you come. If someone moving to the States doesn’t have friends to help them find a place to live, they can look on the Internet for a house or to find a roommate. Also: the CSSA—Chinese Students and Scholars Association—which has branches at most American universities, also offers a lot of helpful information. [For more information, visit CSSA's website.]
苏医生：我有几个朋有在这很多年了，他们给我安排好了一切。来之前找到一个住的地方特别重要。如国有人到美国之前没有认识人的话，可在网上找一个房子或找一个合住的人。还有，中国学生和学者领会在美国大多数大学都有分点，提供很多有用的信息。［如需信息， 请查 CSSA's 网站。］
US-C Information: What misconceptions do Chinese have about living and working in the U.S.?
Dr. Su: Many Chinese people think that they can earn a lot more working in America than in China—that it’s easy to get rich. However, if you want to make a lot of money, you have to work very hard and work long hours.
Also, before I came here, I thought that the American lifestyle was exciting, but now it seems as if it’s mostly just go to work—go home at the end of the day—come to work the next day. . . There’s not a lot of socializing with colleagues, for example. Many Chinese people in the US associate mostly with Chinese. Sometimes it’s hard to make friends with Americans.
还有，在我来美国之前，我以为美国的生活很兴份，但现在看来似乎大都是上办，下班回家，明天接者上班。。。。。。比如，同事之间没有什么交往。大多在美国的中国人都和中国人交往。有时很难和美国人交朋友。
US-C Information: What misconceptions about Chinese do many Americans have?
Dr. Su: Many Americans think that Chinese in China aren’t happy. They don’t realize that China has developed enormously over the last 20 years—e.g., many Americans are surprised to learn that most Chinese people who live in the cities have cars. So, I think that Chinese visitors to the US should know a lot about China and be able to speak English well. Then, we can give Americans an accurate picture of what China is really like today.
Dr. Su: A few things. First of all, that I didn’t speak English as well as I thought I did! I had studied English for many years before coming here, but I didn’t understand anything! People spoke very quickly, and I was very nervous. I still have problems understanding native speakers, but it’s better. Asking people to speak slowly taking an English class, watching TV, and talking with colleagues have helped a lot.
And: that if you’re affiliated with a university as an employee or a student, you can use all of the facilities for free—the gym, the pool, etc. That’s different than in China, where you generally have to pay to use them.
US-C Information: How does the cost of living in the U.S. [in this case, Pittsburgh, PA] compare to China?
Dr. Su: Electronic products are cheaper in the US, but food is cheaper in China.
苏医生：电器在美国便宜，食物在中国便宜。
US-C Information: Is public transportation easy to use?
Dr. Su: I’ve been very happy with the bus system. In China, the buses are very crowded, but here you can usually sit down. Sometimes, the drivers are very nice. I remember how one day, I was waiting for the bus to the airport, but I was waiting at the wrong place. When the driver saw me standing with my luggage, rather than just driving by, he stopped the bus and asked another passenger to get off and call to me.
中美信息最近有幸采访苏医生。苏医生已居住在美国六个月， 现在匹兹堡大学做医学研究。 在采访中，苏医生分享她在美国的经历［在前文刊， 西方与东方相遇，美国作家Kristin Bair O'Keeffe回答和苏医生同样的问询。］
US-C Information: You probably did a fair amount of research before you moved from China to the States. Of the information that you learned, what was most helpful?
中美信息：在从中国移居到美国前，你可能作了许多研究。从你找到的信息中，你觉得哪些最有用？
Dr. Su: The most important thing is to learn English because if your language isn’t good, it’s hard to communicate with native speakers. I had this problem. Usually Chinese people are good at grammar and reading and writing but poor at listening and speaking.
Also, I read a really helpful book that told all about the U.S.—explained the map of the states, told about the the weather, the university system, etc.: USA Atlas by Shaoming Li and Min Zhou.
Dr. Su: The most important thing is to learn English because if your language isn’t good, it’s hard to communicate with native speakers. I had this problem. Usually Chinese people are good at grammar and reading and writing but poor at listening and speaking.
Also, I read a really helpful book that told all about the U.S.—explained the map of the states, told about the the weather, the university system, etc.: USA Atlas by Shaoming Li and Min Zhou.
苏医生：最重要得是学英语，因为如果你语言不好，很难和当地人交流。我遇到此问题。一般来讲，中国人语法，阅读和写作要比较好，但听力和谈话能力差。
还有，有一本很有用的书告诉了所有有关美国的信息，解释了美国地图，天气和大学制度等等。
US-C Information: What information did you not have that you wish you had had?
中美信息：什么信息你现有但你来美之前没有？
Dr. Su: If you are going to work in America, you really have to know about your field of study, and to be able to talk about it--not just about your particular area, but also about how the field as a whole is developing in the U.S. This is especially important in the sciences or medicine because they develop so fast.
苏医生：如你去美国工作，你真需精通你的专业。你要能和他人探讨不只是专门一项，而且能探讨整个行业，尤其是在快束发展的科学和医学领域。
Also, you should know a lot about China because Americans will ask you about your country— e.g., about Chinese culture and aspects of daily life such as food, sports, entertainment. . .
And: Americans ask about Chinese greetings, such as how to say “Hello. How are you?” or how to respond.
Also, you should know a lot about China because Americans will ask you about your country— e.g., about Chinese culture and aspects of daily life such as food, sports, entertainment. . .
And: Americans ask about Chinese greetings, such as how to say “Hello. How are you?” or how to respond.
还有，你应该具有充足的中国信息，因为美国人会问你有关中国的信息。比如，有关中国的文化和日常生活象饭菜，体育和游乐等等。
再有，美国人对中文有兴趣，象怎么说：‘喂，你怎么样？’ 或怎么回答。
US-C Information: Was there any organization that helped you when you first arrived in Pittsburgh?
中美信息：当你刚到匹磁堡，有任何组织帮助你乐吗？
Dr. Su: I had several friends here who had been here for many years, and they arranged everything for me. It’s especially important to find a place to live before you come. If someone moving to the States doesn’t have friends to help them find a place to live, they can look on the Internet for a house or to find a roommate. Also: the CSSA—Chinese Students and Scholars Association—which has branches at most American universities, also offers a lot of helpful information. [For more information, visit CSSA's website.]
苏医生：我有几个朋有在这很多年了，他们给我安排好了一切。来之前找到一个住的地方特别重要。如国有人到美国之前没有认识人的话，可在网上找一个房子或找一个合住的人。还有，中国学生和学者领会在美国大多数大学都有分点，提供很多有用的信息。［如需信息， 请查 CSSA's 网站。］
US-C Information: What misconceptions do Chinese have about living and working in the U.S.?
中美信息：中国人对在美国居住和工作有什么成见？
Dr. Su: Many Chinese people think that they can earn a lot more working in America than in China—that it’s easy to get rich. However, if you want to make a lot of money, you have to work very hard and work long hours.
苏医生：许多中国人认为在美国能比在中国多挣钱，很容易变的富有。但是如你真想挣很多钱，你必须很辛苦地工作和工作很多小时。
Also, before I came here, I thought that the American lifestyle was exciting, but now it seems as if it’s mostly just go to work—go home at the end of the day—come to work the next day. . . There’s not a lot of socializing with colleagues, for example. Many Chinese people in the US associate mostly with Chinese. Sometimes it’s hard to make friends with Americans.
还有，在我来美国之前，我以为美国的生活很兴份，但现在看来似乎大都是上办，下班回家，明天接者上班。。。。。。比如，同事之间没有什么交往。大多在美国的中国人都和中国人交往。有时很难和美国人交朋友。
US-C Information: What misconceptions about Chinese do many Americans have?
中美信息：美国人对中国人有什么成见？
Dr. Su: Many Americans think that Chinese in China aren’t happy. They don’t realize that China has developed enormously over the last 20 years—e.g., many Americans are surprised to learn that most Chinese people who live in the cities have cars. So, I think that Chinese visitors to the US should know a lot about China and be able to speak English well. Then, we can give Americans an accurate picture of what China is really like today.
苏医生：许多美国人认为中国人不幸福。他们没有认识到过去的二十年中国发展具大。比如，许多美国人很惊讶地发现许多住在城市的中国人有车。所以我觉的中国到美国的出访者应该拥有很多中国常识，而且会说好英文。然后我们能给美国人更切实际的中国现今报道。
US-C Information: What’s surprised you most about living in the U.S.?
US-C Information: What’s surprised you most about living in the U.S.?
中美信息：对你来说住在美国最吃惊的是什么？
Dr. Su: A few things. First of all, that I didn’t speak English as well as I thought I did! I had studied English for many years before coming here, but I didn’t understand anything! People spoke very quickly, and I was very nervous. I still have problems understanding native speakers, but it’s better. Asking people to speak slowly taking an English class, watching TV, and talking with colleagues have helped a lot.
苏医生：有几个情况。首先，我发现我的英文没有我想象的好。在我来之前，我学了好几年的英语，但我什么也不懂。人们说话很快，我很紧张。至今我还有困难听懂当地人讲话。但已经好多了。请别人讲慢点，上英语课，看电视和同同事交流对我帮助很大。
Also, I’ve been surprised by the number of churches and how active they are in the community. Many of them offer free English classes.
Also, I’ve been surprised by the number of churches and how active they are in the community. Many of them offer free English classes.
还有，我很惊奇地发现很多的教堂和其在社区的重要性。很多教堂提供英语课。
And: that if you’re affiliated with a university as an employee or a student, you can use all of the facilities for free—the gym, the pool, etc. That’s different than in China, where you generally have to pay to use them.
再有，如果你是大学的职员或学生，你可以免费用其设备，象键身房，游泳池等等。在中国不一样，你一般需交费使用。
US-C Information: How does the cost of living in the U.S. [in this case, Pittsburgh, PA] compare to China?
中美信息：美国的消费 ［这指滨州匹磁堡］和中国比如何？
Dr. Su: Electronic products are cheaper in the US, but food is cheaper in China.
苏医生：电器在美国便宜，食物在中国便宜。
US-C Information: Is public transportation easy to use?
中美信息：公共交通方便吗？
Dr. Su: I’ve been very happy with the bus system. In China, the buses are very crowded, but here you can usually sit down. Sometimes, the drivers are very nice. I remember how one day, I was waiting for the bus to the airport, but I was waiting at the wrong place. When the driver saw me standing with my luggage, rather than just driving by, he stopped the bus and asked another passenger to get off and call to me.
苏医生：我对共交很满意。在中国，共公汽车很拥挤，但在这你能找道座位。有时司机很友好。我记得有一天，我在车站等去飞机场的汽车，但我等错地方了。当司机看见我拎着行礼站在那儿，并没有开走，反儿停下车，叫一个乘客下车来叫我。
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
