Region/Country Communication Style Characteristics Example
United States Direct, Assertive Clear, to the point, and straightforward. Emphasis on individualism and efficiency. "Let’s cut to the chase; here’s what we need to do."
Germany Formal, Direct Value for precision and clarity. Communication is often direct but respectful, especially in business. "We need to address the issue of productivity."
Japan Indirect, Polite High value on harmony and respect. Avoid confrontation. Use of non-verbal cues and formal expressions. "Perhaps we could consider another way." (avoiding direct disagreement)
France Direct, Intellectual Open to debate and intellectual discussions. Strong emphasis on clarity but may involve more formal language. "This point is important because..."
Italy Expressive, Indirect Emotional and expressive. Communication can be indirect and highly contextual. "Well, maybe we should think it through a bit more, eh?"
United Kingdom Polite, Indirect Often indirect with a focus on politeness. There is an emphasis on understatement and avoidance of direct confrontation. "I’m not sure that’s the best approach."
India Indirect, Hierarchical Respect for hierarchy, with communication often indirect to preserve face. Family and social hierarchies are key. "That may not be the best way, but I’ll try to find another solution."
China Indirect, Formal Deep respect for hierarchy and relationships. Subtle communication, avoiding confrontation. "Let’s explore a solution that benefits everyone."
Mexico Indirect, Warm Relationship-oriented with a focus on warmth and respect. Avoiding conflict is highly valued. "Maybe we can revisit this at a later time."
Brazil Casual, Emotional Highly expressive with open body language. Direct in personal relationships but indirect in professional matters. "I think this is the way we should go, don't you think?"
Russia Direct, Formal Communication can be very direct, especially in business. Less concern for politeness, but formality is important. "We must do this now."
South Korea Indirect, Hierarchical High respect for authority and hierarchy. Communication is polite and often indirect, especially in public. "Let’s consider all perspectives on this."
Saudi Arabia Formal, Indirect Formal with an emphasis on respect for hierarchy and avoiding confrontation. Indirect communication is common in business. "Perhaps we should meet again to discuss further."
Turkey Indirect, Relationship-oriented Communication often reflects an effort to maintain relationships and avoid direct confrontation. "I’m not sure that’s the best solution; let’s think it over."
Australia Casual, Direct Informal and relaxed. They prefer a direct approach but tend to avoid excessive formality. "Let’s get to the point and get it done."
South Africa Direct, Diverse Communication style varies with ethnic groups, but directness is common in business settings. "We need to address this now, please."
Egypt Indirect, Polite Indirect communication with a high emphasis on respect for others, particularly elders and superiors. "I’d suggest we reconsider this approach."
Indonesia Indirect, Respectful Highly respectful, especially in professional settings. Avoiding confrontation and preserving face is important. "Perhaps there’s another way we can look at this."
Thailand Indirect, Polite Communication is indirect to preserve harmony and avoid discomfort, with an emphasis on politeness. "Maybe it would be better to think it over once again."
Argentina Direct, Expressive Open and expressive communication. Expect emotional engagement, but still respectful in business settings. "I think we need to push forward with this plan."
Chile Formal, Indirect Communication tends to be formal and indirect, especially in business. Relationships play an important role. "It might be beneficial to look at another approach."
Nigeria Direct, Contextual Communication style is often direct but highly contextual, influenced by culture and status. "We should move forward with this solution immediately."
Nigeria (Yoruba) Indirect, Respectful High respect for hierarchy, elders, and authority figures. Indirect communication helps maintain respect. "We may want to reconsider this, but it’s up to you."
Ghana Direct, Warm Direct but often accompanied by warmth and politeness, particularly when addressing hierarchy. "Let’s go ahead with this decision."
Last modified: Saturday, 18 January 2025, 9:56 AM