Due to the cultural differences,a lot of foreign friends are puzzled with Chinese greetings when they first come to China.They always hear Chinese people begin talking to them with “Have you had your meal?”.And they don’t know how to reply it.Actually ,it’s the same as ”hello” in the west.Both of them express their warm greetings.Obviously ,there still are many differences between the east and the west.For example,Westerners will use a warm hug and a kiss to express their joy when they meet others.However,in the eyes of Chinese people,a simple handshake,a hug or a warm smile is enough.In China,the young should be the first to say hello to the aged.It is a way of expressing their respect.
All in all,in cross-cultural communication,we need note the differences to avoid misunderstanding each other.