International Gift Etiquette: 20+ Forbidden Gifts to Avoid

Did you know that gift-giving to foreigners also has its own set of "unspoken rules"? A gift that seems perfectly normal in Vietnam might carry negative connotations in another country—or vice versa! To avoid any "awkward" situations, let's explore with CHUSVN some gifts you should "steer clear of" when gifting to foreigners.

1. Watches

Watches are not ideal gifts for people from Asian countries, especially China and South Korea. In these cultures, a watch symbolizes the passage of time and the end of someone's life. Giving a watch can imply a short lifespan and death, making it an inauspicious gift.

2. Handkerchiefs

Handkerchiefs might seem like a simple gift, but they carry different meanings in various cultures. In countries like China and South Korea, giving a handkerchief is considered a bad omen, symbolizing farewell and parting.

3. White Flowers

White flowers are often associated with funerals and mourning in countries like China, Russia, and France. Giving white flowers can bring sadness and bad luck, making them an unsuitable gift for many occasions.

4. Green Hats

In China, green hats are linked to an idiom implying that a man's wife is unfaithful. Giving a green hat to a Chinese man suggests that his partner is cheating, making this item a definite no-no.

5. Shoes

Shoes are an inappropriate gift for elderly foreigners, especially in China, as they are associated with death. Additionally, shoes made of leather should not be gifted to Indians for religious reasons. In South Korea and Japan, shoes symbolize separation and are not a good choice.

6. Umbrellas

In Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultures, an umbrella symbolizes separation. Giving an umbrella might suggest that you want the recipient to leave. Instead, consider gifts that symbolize unity, like bags or backpacks.

7. Medicine or Supplements

Medicine or supplements as a gift can imply illness and concern about the recipient's health. It's better to choose gifts that express care, like nutritious foods or herbal teas.

8. Scissors

Scissors symbolize cutting ties and are not suitable gifts in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. They can be interpreted as ending a relationship, making them inappropriate for friends or loved ones.

9. Single Items

In many East Asian cultures, giving gifts in pairs symbolizes completeness. Avoid giving single items to newlyweds, as it may feel incomplete or thoughtless.

10. Black Wrapping Paper

Black is associated with mourning and should be avoided when wrapping gifts for people from China, Korea, and Japan.

11. White Wrapping Paper

Similarly, white wrapping paper is linked to funerals and mourning. It's best to choose bright, vibrant colors that convey joy and good fortune.

12. Items with the Number 4

The number 4 is considered unlucky in countries like Vietnam, China, Japan, and South Korea because it sounds like the word "death" in Chinese. Avoid giving items associated with this number.

13. Lilies

Lilies are often used in funerals in China, France, and Japan. Instead of lilies, choose flowers with positive meanings that are culturally appropriate.

14. Yellow Flowers

In Russia and France, yellow flowers can symbolize mourning and separation. Opt for more cheerful colors like pink or red to express happiness and congratulations.

15. Carnations

Carnations are associated with funerals in Russia and France, making them an unsuitable gift.

16. Perfume

Perfume is a personal and intimate gift, often only given to very close friends. Avoid giving perfume to people you don't know well, especially in the United States and India.

17. Clothing

Clothing is considered personal and can be uncomfortable to receive, especially in the United States. It's best to avoid gifting clothing to acquaintances or people you're not close to.

18. Alcohol

Alcohol may not be an appropriate gift for everyone. Avoid giving alcohol to people from Muslim-majority countries and India, where religious or cultural norms may prohibit its consumption.

19. Leather Items

Leather goods should be avoided, especially for Hindus in India, as cows are considered sacred. Giving leather can be offensive and disrespectful.

20. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are often associated with funerals and mourning in countries like Vietnam, Korea, and several European countries, including France, Italy, and Belgium.

However, in Indian culture, chrysanthemums symbolize good luck and prosperity.

21. Red Roses

In French culture, red roses are reserved for romantic relationships and are not appropriate for friends or casual acquaintances.

22. Jewelry

Jewelry can be seen as an overly personal and intimate gift in India. It is usually reserved for very close relationships and can be misconstrued in other contexts.

23. Frangipani (Plumeria)

In Hindu culture, frangipani symbolizes sadness and death. It's best to avoid gifting these flowers to avoid offending religious beliefs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gift for someone from a different culture is an art that requires sensitivity and finesse. CHUSVN hopes this guide has helped you better understand the gifting customs of various countries. However, there's still so much more to discover! Stay with us as we continue to explore fascinating cultural insights together!