Gift Giving No-nos

Christmas is just around the corner. It’s a season of laughter, cheers, and of course, gifts! Nothing beats the feeling of tearing that nice colored wrapper and peek into the surprise inside. No matter what age or era you are in, the happy feeling of getting a gift is truly astonishing. But wait, while it’s true that the thought that someone took his time to consider giving you something that would hold value for you, you have to remember that in many cultures a gift may mean more than the thought. Here are some gift ideas that you may avoid giving due to the meaning that is attached to them that may send the wrong impression which may lead to complications and defeat your purpose in giving someone a good memory of your gift. 

Towels 

Usually the white ones, towels are often used or given to people in Chinese funerals to wipe away the tears. Giving such presents may appear that you want the recipient to cry over someone dear to them. 

Clock and Shoes 

Similar to towels, a clock and a pair of shoes given as a gift on any occasion are interpreted as a gesture that you want to end your relationship or friendship with the recipient. 

Sharp Objects, Umbrella, White or Black Themed Objects 

Giving them generally means that you want to end the relationship to the recipient or these connote death since most of these objects are associated with funerals. 

Perfume 

It implies a weak relationship or faded feelings towards the person dear to you. This is because a perfume fades as time goes by. It doesn’t last. 

Mirror or Glassware 

Fragile nature of glass is seen as a wish for the person to be broken. 

Whiskey or Alcoholic Beverage 

While in the west, giving or bringing wine when visiting a friend’s house is acceptable, among Asian Muslims these is considered rude because alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited among Muslims. 

Gift Involved in Number Four (4) 

For the Japanese and Chinese, number four (4) means bad luck. 

Even-Numbered Floral Arrangement 

Giving of even-numbered floral arrangement in some countries like Russia is considered rude because it is only used in funerals. 

Yellow Flowers 

Yellow flowers signify break-up. In the Philippines, if a man or woman gives flowers to a special someone, it means that the relationship is intended for pure friendship only. 

Rosary 

In Philippine culture, giving a rosary to someone is a no-no since if it accidentally breaks, it means that the person who has given it to you is bound to die or end his relationship with you. 

Nevertheless, at the end of the day, in giving gifts it’s the thought that counts. But then again, it’s better to be safe just in case.

Photo Credit: Pixabay