Navigating Social Mistakes

When You Make a Faux Pas

Everyone makes social mistakes. Your recovery matters more than the error:

1. Acknowledge quickly: "Excusez-moi" or "Pardon" 2. Don't over-apologize: Once or twice suffices 3. Show you're learning: "Je suis encore en train d'apprendre vos coutumes" 4. Move forward: Don't dwell on the mistake 5. Learn for next time: Ask a trusted friend later for clarification

Reading Social Cues

French people rarely give direct negative feedback in social situations. Watch for: - Slight cooling of manner - Increased formality - Shorter responses - Subject changes - Physical distance increases

These aren't necessarily personal—you might have unknowingly crossed a cultural line.