Passage 2: When you have to meet someone from a different culture, be prepared. If you understand cul tu ral differences, you’ll be a better communicator -- - even before you open your mouth ! In many Western cultures, men stand up before they are 36 to someone important. Standing up shows politeness and 37 . After that, someone will usually offer to shake hands. But in the East , 38 introductions often begin and end with bowing rather than shaking hands . Now, let’s look at the simple introduction of shaking hands. Americans like a 39 handshake . But the French 40 a light, short handshake. If you shake a Frenchman’s hand the American way, he may think you re uncultured People in Eastern European countries and some Latino cultures prefer shorter handshakes, too. Hugging after shaking hands is also a common introduction. Don’t be scared or 41 if you meet someone in Brazil and he gives you a hug. If you 42 this gesture, your friendship may not start well ! The 43 customs for eye contact vary between cultures, too. Westerners appreciate regular eye contact during conversations. Refusing to look at a Westerner in the eye may be understood as lack of trust, or maybe 44 . But in some African countries, too much eye contact can offend or sometimes have romantic meanings. Some people in Middle Eastern countries may appear to have their eyes half-closed while talking to you. Although it might seem like they’re tired or bored, such behaviour is normal and should not be taken 45 . A) proper B) respect C) boredom D) naturally E) prefer F) firm G) misinterpret H) personally I) light J) impression K) introduced L) illustrate M) offended N) typical O) preferable