Language/Afrikaans/Culture/Etiquette-and-Social-Customs

Afrikaans Culture → Culture and Social Customs → Etiquette and Social Customs

Etiquette and Social Customs

Introduction

When learning a new language, it’s not just the grammar and vocabulary that you have to master. Understanding the social norms, customs, and etiquette of the language’s culture is also crucial. This is especially true for Afrikaans, a language spoken in South Africa, Namibia, and some parts of Botswana and Zimbabwe. In this lesson, we’ll explore the social customs and manners of Afrikaans-speaking people.

Greetings and Socializing

In Afrikaans culture, greetings are important, and they typically involve shaking hands, hugging, or kissing (on the cheek). It’s also common to ask someone about their health and well-being, as this is viewed as a sign of respect and caring.

When addressing someone in Afrikaans, it’s important to use the correct title. For example, ‘Mejuffrou’ is used for an unmarried woman, ‘Mevrou’ is used for a married woman, ‘Meneer’ is used for a man, and ‘Dokter’ is used for a doctor.

Table Manners

In formal settings, table manners are highly valued in Afrikaans society. Here are some tips for proper table etiquette:

• Wait for everyone to be seated before eating.
• Do not start eating until the host starts.
• Use utensils appropriately and keep elbows off the table.
• Do not burp, slurp, or make other unpleasant noises while eating.
• Say “please” and “thank you” when asking for or receiving food.

Clothing and Appearance

Afrikaans fashion is diverse and influenced by different cultures, but modesty is generally valued in Afrikaans-speaking countries. When dressing for formal occasions or meetings, it’s important to dress conservatively and avoid revealing clothing.

When meeting new people, it’s important to make a good first impression by appearing well-groomed and presentable. Personal hygiene is also highly valued, so be sure to maintain cleanliness in your appearance.

Social and Family Life

Family is very important in Afrikaans culture, and it’s not unusual for people to live with their parents or extended family until they’re ready to start their own families. Children are taught to be respectful of their elders and to prioritize family bonds above all else.

In social situations, it’s important to be polite and considerate of others. Here are some tips:

• Show interest in other people and what they have to say.
• Be punctual and arrive on time.
• Do not interrupt others while they’re speaking.
• Do not criticize someone in public or belittle their opinions.
• Be respectful of cultural traditions and customs, even if you don’t necessarily understand or agree with them.

Conclusion

In this lesson, we’ve explored the social norms, customs, and etiquette of Afrikaans-speaking cultures. Remember, when learning a new language, it’s important to understand the culture and social customs as well as the grammar and vocabulary. By following the tips and guidelines we’ve discussed, you’ll be able to navigate social situations with confidence and respect.

Practice

If you would like to put your knowledge of Afrikaans social customs and etiquette to use, try the following exercises:

1. Roleplay a formal dinner party, using the table manners and etiquette discussed in this lesson. 2. Write an essay discussing the importance of family and respecting elders in Afrikaans culture. 3. Read a news article about a recent festival or cultural event in an Afrikaans-speaking country, and discuss the cultural traditions and customs that were highlighted in the event.

Vocabulary

Here are some commonly used Afrikaans words and phrases related to social customs and etiquette:

Afrikaans	Pronunciation	English
Goeiedag	Go-ee-daugh	Good day
Goeienaand	Go-ee-naunt	Good evening
Meneer	Me-near	Sir/Mister
Mejuffrou	May-yoo-fro	Miss
Mevrou	Me-froo	Madam
Asseblief	Us-se-bleef	Please
Dankie	Dunk-ee	Thank you

Table of Contents - Afrikaans Course - 0 to A1

• Course Presentation

  ---

Introduction to Afrikaans

• Alphabet and Pronunciation
• Nouns and Gender
• Adjectives and Agreement
• Verbs and Tenses
• Adverbs and Comparatives
• Pronouns and Prepositions

  ---

Greetings and Introductions

• Saying Hello and Goodbye
• Introducing Yourself and Others
• Talking about Family and Friends
• Describing People and Appearance
• Daily Routine and Activities
• Food and Drink
• Numbers and Shopping
• Travel and Transportation

  ---

Culture and Social Customs

• South African Culture and History
• Afrikaans Music and Literature
• Celebrations and Festivals
• Etiquette and Social Customs
• Business and Work Culture
• Sport and Leisure Activities
• Daily Life and Routines

Related Lessons

• History
• Business and Work Culture
• Daily Life and Routines
• The Difference Between Proverbs and Idioms
• South African Culture and History
• Where is it spoken
• Sport and Leisure Activities
• Cultural Etiquette
• Why Use Proverbs in Afrikaans Conversations