195. Arabs consider it extremely bad manners to start talking business
immediately. Even the busiest government officials always take extra time to be
polite and offer refreshments. No matter how busy you are, you should make time
for this hospitality. The conference visit is a way of doing business throughout
the Arab world. Frequently, you will have to discuss your business in the
presence of strangers, who may or may not have anything to do with your
business. Do not be surprised if your meeting is interrupted several times by
people who come into the room unannounced, whisper, or speak softly to the
person with whom you are talking, and leave. Act as though you do not hear, and
never show displeasure at being interrupted. When an Arab says “yes”, he may
mean “maybe”. When he says “maybe”, he probably means “no”, you will seldom get
a direct “no” from an Arab because it is considered impolite. Instead of “no”,
he will say “inshallah”, which means, “if God is willing”. On the other hand,
‘‘yes” does not necessarily mean “yes”. A smile and a slow nod might seem like
an agreement, but in fact, your host is being polite. An Arab considers it
impolite to disagree with a guest. [共5题]
(1) The main purpose of this article is to explain ________.
(A) why you need extra time when you visit Arab countries
(B) how to be polite when doing business in the Arab world
(C) why Arab officials are so busy
(D) what Arabs say when doing business
(2) According to the passage, which of the following would be considered
polite?
(A) You leave angrily because of interruptions.
(B) You demand an immediate decision.
(C) You refuse a cup of tea and show pictures of your product right away.
(D) You look out of the window while a stranger comes in to speak with the
host.
(3) From the passage, we know that ________.
(A) when an Arab wants to say “yes”, he often says “maybe”
(B) all Arab seldom disagrees with a guest to his face
(C) when an Arab agrees, a smile and a slow nod will be given
(D) “inshallab” is an English word
(4) Which of the following is NOT an Arab custom?
(A) To dislike being interrupted during their meeting.
(B) Often to give you a vague answer.
(C) Seldom to say “no” directly.
(D) Seldom hesitate to start talking business in the presence of
strangers.
(5) The writer of this passage has probably ________.
(A) never been to the Arab world
(B) been against the Arab customs
(C) worked in the Arab world
(D) liked the Arab customs