Episode 2: Feedback

As a young French woman living in China, I break down one of my biggest cultural shocks alongside my Chinese co-host.In European culture, directly saying “no” and giving blunt, honest feedback in class or daily life is seen as respectful transparency. But in Chinese social customs, outright rejection is avoided at all costs. Instead, people soften refusal with apologies or phrases like “I can’t”, and many hesitate to share critical feedback to protect harmony with others.We unpack how this contrast plays out in university classrooms, friendships, and cross-cultural communication, with dual French and Chinese viewpoints.