Question

听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。

1.What is the passage mainly about?

A.A visit to Arab. B.The business in Arab. C.The Arabs’ customs.

2.What is an unpleasant behavior for Arabs?

A.Talking business immediately.

B.Having refreshments before talking.

C.Discussing business in front of strangers.

3.What should people do when a meeting is interrupted?

A.Stop talking and leave.

B.Pretend not to hear and goon.

C.Let someone know your displeasure.

4.Why do Arabs rarely say”No”directly?

A.They consider it impolite to a guest.

B.They think it is disrespectful to God.

C.They want to have lots of time to consider.

Answer

1.C

2.A

3.B

4.A

【解析】

【原文】

W: Arabs(阿拉伯人) consider it extremely bad manners to start talking business immediately. Even the busiest government official always takes extra time to be polite and offer refreshments. No matter how busy you are, you should make time for this.

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 in talking, and leave. Act as though you do not hear, and never show displeasure at being interrupted.

Making decisions quickly is not an Arab custom. There is a vagueness in doing business in the Middle East which will puzzle a newcomer. Give yourself lots of time and ask lots of questions.

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 “nshallah”, 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 consider it impolite to disagree with a guest.