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Tell me you're in America without telling me you're in America... I'll go first. Metal detectors at schools, gallons of gas, exorbitant healthcare costs, corn dogs.

Each country has its unique quirks and kinks that make it special, and America is no different. There are certain things that just scream "United States." But often it takes a non-American to point them out because, for those living in the Land of the Free, there's nothing unusual about having a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink while living under the rules of a power-hungry HOA.

Someone asked, "What things are normal for Americans but weird for non-Americans?" and the answers came flying in at 100 miles per hour. Bored Panda has put together a list of the best ones for you to scroll through while you wonder why the States is worlds apart.

#1

“What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Excessive thanking of veterans for their service, but also apparently providing them limited access to mental health support.

syphilliticmongoose , Getty Images/Unsplash (not the actual photo) Report

Zig Zag Wanderer
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'd say borderline obsessive adulation of armed forces. It's weird to everyone else.

Kid Murray
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of several reasons I no longer watch NFL football is the "Official We Love War Military Circle Jerk brought to you by Bud Light and Cialis" at the beginning of every game. It's nauseating.

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MontanaMariner
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's an American embarrassment. Politicians will campaign on loving our troops, etc. Then they slash funding for our troops.

General Anaesthesia
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"They are sսckеrs and lοsеrs" - DJ "Heroic Bone Spurs" Trump. "They knew what they signed up for".

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Kid Murray
Community Member
1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The simple fact is, if you're American and not a WW2 vet, and you're not, your military service was meaningless. You didn't preserve freedom, or defend your country or anything else you believe. You defended billionaires and corrupt politicians, and in fact may have even played a part in hurting freedom. F*** your service. All of the people who died, in Vietnam or the Middle East or wherever, died for nothing, a complete waste of their life.

Earonn -
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The excessive praise of the armed forces, at this point, just looks like overcompensation to hide the guilt of not giving a s**t about soldiers once they returned with any kind of health issue. Similar to how glorification of motherhood usually gets along with doing sh/t all for mothers.

BookFanatic
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, yeah, cuz "thank you" is a lot cheaper than actually providing help. /s

Nicole Weymann
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yupp. Same with the balcony clappin BS during COVID. Clapping doesn't pay bills, and thanks don't fill staffing schedules. Them greedy nurses still want money! /S

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Roberta Surprenant
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This has only come up in last few decades. Growing up in 50's-60's almost everyone had family who had served in military, either WWII or Korea.

nottheactualphoto
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unfortunately, those family members are six feet under.

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PrettyJoyBird
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Thank you for your service to our country and any allied country.

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Kelly Scott
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, it's just a bandwagon everyone has jumped on. They say 'thank you for your service' to the veterans not because they're grateful, but because they like themselves when they do it. "I said thank you to a veteran, aren't I a wonderful person?" F**k off.

Geoffrey Scott
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Depending on who I'm talking to, (I am a 3 yr vet) I either say "Thanks for doing the tough stuff" to folks who saw combat, or nothing at all. I tell those who say "Thank you for your service" "gee, thanks", as I view it as the equivalent of have a nice day.

Namea
Community Member
1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The only country where we celebrate the government sponsored murderers and then ignore them when they need help because of what they had to do. The stories about orders that my brother had to follow in Afghanistan are horrific.

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America. The Land of the Free … It’s all cotton candy, glitz and glamour, endless opportunity and big dreams. Or is it?

The country was once seen as a top place to live by many Americans and non-Americans alike. But recent research reveals that people are nowhere near as proud as they once were to be a U.S. national. A Gallup poll conducted in June 2025 found that American pride is at a record low.

"58% of U.S. adults say they are “extremely” (41%) or “very” (17%) proud to be an American, down nine percentage points from last year and five points below the prior low from 2020," reports Gallup.

Gallup first asked Americans how proud they were in January 2001. Back then, 87% said they were “extremely” or “very proud.” That figure increased to 90% after 9/11 and remained steady between 2002 and 2004.

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    #2

    Man in checkered shirt upset while doctor comforts him in a clinical setting, highlighting stress linked to metal detectors at school. Being poor can potentially [put] you in debt for life.

    I had a heart operation in the UK and didn't even have to pay for parking. A guy on Reddit in the U.S. had the same operation and is now in debt 1/4 million dollars.
    He is also likely to be in & out of hospital for the rest of his life and no insurance company will go anywhere near him.

    To a non-US person this is both mind-blowing and disgusting in equal measures.

    stanagetocurbar , pressfoto (not the actual photo) Report

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Profit over people. We need more Luigis!

    WindySwede
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Not guilty until proven otherwise" or something like that, though?

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    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It really looks as if the USA loves money and doesn't care about the human beings. And it pretends that this was how it must be, while literally hundreds of other countries get their priorities straight.

    Calane E. Vanya
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    maybe it's too late. people strongly supporting things like universal healthcare in US aren't the types to "go to war" for it (and I don't say that they should). they would rather see a civilized, peaceful transition. they have too rich and strong opponents. the beginnings of healthcare systems in Europe were in completely different conditions.

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    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Switzerland everything is done through private health insurance too, but there are two major differences. First, everybody must have it. Second, insurers must charge the same for anyone, regardless of existing medical conditions.

    Ghostchaplain16
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We lost everything, twice. When my son was born, both he and my wife weren't expected to live. Wonderfully, both did, but we had to sell our home and empty our savings to pay what wasn't covered by (quality) group health insurance coverage. Slowly rebuilt; then 25 years later, had to sell everything--including our car, furniture, rights to my writing and exhaust our savings when we were hit with open heart surgery (me) then back-to-back different forms of cancer (my wife). Lost everything again, but my wife beat both cancers so no regrets; but we're both haunted by the question of what others do who didn't have those resources. Greed is the culprit in American healthcare. Edited to be clear we're not whining.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think the medical profession will figure this out when people start defaulting on their medical bills in a huge, huge way. And then maybe when the insurers and the medical admins start leaning on our stupid politicians, something might finally be done about universal health care. I'm deliberately not going in for some needed surgery because I want to keep my credit score to get a loan in the next couple of years, but I honestly know I will never be able to pay my medical bill from that surgery. I mean, Medicare will cover 80%, but I know I won't ever be able to afford the 20%. So my plan is to just not pay the bill. What are they gonna do? Sue me? Seriously, I have absolutely nothing of value. Maybe they can take my 20 year old car.

    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Repubs are going OUT..Of..Their...Minds over the ACA and wish to abolish it. Ironically, they have faced such significant blow back from their constituents, there is now a majority to preserve it.

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Pfft. Didn't have to pay for parking? Where is this utopia of a hospital! When I was in hospital for three days I racked up a £24 parking charge!

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That parking bill can be horrific, though!

    Norm Gilmore
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I know right! I've had to pay around $40 in total over the last 5 years for the many, many outpatient visits to my local hospital... :-)

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    Lesley Thomas
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have had surgery and undergoing radiation for stage 2 breast cancer, it hasn't cost me anything - Australia

    Archanae
    Community Member
    1 day ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That U.S person should come to FR, we have free healthcare for immigrants

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    #3

    Two people in a discussion over documents at a table, illustrating the concept of metal detectors at school safety measures. Attaching medical insurance to employment. One shouldn’t have anything to do with the other.

    jimjamjimmerson , ijeab/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But how else force people to lick their boss' ar.se? We can't have European conditions, where people can leave for any other job, as long as it pays enough (or even live on their savings for a few months), can we, dear USA?

    John Dilligaf
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't know if it's true but I think this went back to WW2. During WW2 there were wage and price controls in place. There was also a labor shortage due to the war. Companies couldn't raise wages to attract workers so they instead started adding non-salary benefits, like company paid health insurance.

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    Gallup's experts put the decline in U.S. pride down to a few things... They say national unity has eroded over the past 25 years due to a combination of political and generational changes.

    "These changes have occurred mostly over the past decade, and have done so amid greater pessimism about the economic prospects for young people, widespread dissatisfaction with the state of the nation, greater ideological divides between the parties, unfavorable images of both parties, and intense partisan rancor during the Trump and Biden administrations," explains the site.

    #4

    Teen boy looking thoughtfully out car window, symbolizing concerns about metal detectors at school in America. The fact that a 18 year old can drive and buy a gun while still being considered too young to drink alcohol.

    Monika396 , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can actually drink at any age in most European countries. Buying it is restricted. In America, even drinking beer is illegal under 21 in some states!

    Karl
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That’s one hell of a Prohibition hangover

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    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    also in europe you can't drive and drink alchool while using a gun at the same time XD

    Tyranamar Seuss
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can drive at 16. Well, you can get your learner's permit at 15 I think.

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Probably why the USA has such a high rate of fatal vehicle accidents.

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    driedgrapes
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The federal government forced 21 in all states by withholding funding for those who didn't do it.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jeez, can you imagine if they CAN drink and then buy a gun?

    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, would you want them to drive and have a gun WHILE drinking alcohol? Doesn't seem very logical.

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the state of Utah (USA) for many years you could only buy 3.2% beer. Any other alcoholic beverage had to be purchased at the state liquor store or at a few licensed "private clubs" that you had to have a membership for. You were also allowed to carry a bottle of alcohol to some restaurants to hand to them and they would pour your drinks for you with your own bottle of alcohol. Then they would give it back to you at the end of the night, but there was a "no open carry" law as well, so it rather encouraged you to drink the entire bottle, as you couldn't take an already opened bottle into the restaurant with you.

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    #5

    Security guard using handheld metal detector to scan a bag, illustrating metal detectors at school for safety purposes. My friend attended his cousins high school graduation in LA a while ago and he had to go through metal detectors and all that, as if he was going through airport security.

    So I guess metal detectors at school.

    yeetgodmcnechass , wavebreakmedia_micro/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is also freedom. Freedom i don't want.

    Petra Peitsch
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your founding fathets never thought of this kind of shít ...

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    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Uh, yes. That's weird. Only place I can think of off the top of my head (aside from airports) that have metal detectors here are courts.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have one at our parliament, but last time I walked through, I had a nice chat with the security staff about my hand knitted jumper afterwards. don't get me wrong, they do their job - just in a matter that is still welcoming.

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    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As a part time consultant for several school districts it was sad watching schools installing metal detectors.

    Ravenkbh
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well we do tend to use our children for target practice

    Jan Rosier
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wouldn't be surprised if these security companies had a deal with the gunlobby...

    Nova Rook
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Children being m******d in schools is just the price to be paid so men can own semi automatic guns.

    Batwench
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the UK there are an increasing number of schools having metal detectors.

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also at most government buildings, especially corthouse.

    Maren Villadsen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Watch 'Thoughts and prayes' on HBO scarry and sad!

    Manny
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They are not in all schools. Only in high crime areas.

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    #6

    Statue of Liberty in front of an American flag, symbolizing quintessentially American things including metal detectors at school. 1. The units (non metric ones)
    2. The overall insanity of politics no matter what colour
    3. The heavily biased main stream media
    4. The lack of affordable health care
    5. Guns, guns, guns
    6. The importance of credit scores
    7. Checks as payment
    8. (Lack of) Worker's rights (like paid vacation, maternity leave, etc.)

    DDSC12 , ungvar/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    WindySwede
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Parents had a hard time using checks in the (late?) 90s, the stores didn't have knowledge of how to receive and verity them.

    Petra Peitsch
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'll give you a better example .... Lots of european "touristy places", -and not just- don't accept amrican credit cards. The most obvious example, i have seen was last year in Barcelona, where in even a small ice-cream place was stated "We don't accept Amex cards".

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    Spittnimage
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not many places take checks anymore.

    moggiemoo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The politicians in the UK won't let us have guns, they know who we'd use them on.

    Serigala
    Community Member
    6 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Credit scores are also very important in the UK

    Evelien Stijger Martens
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yess, the check thing. During covid there where checkes send to people all over the world that once worked there and amerikans same. But what can you do with a check of 1500 dollar in countrys that don't take checks?

    Maren Villadsen
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I havnt seen a check since the early 90s (Denmark) You havnt ben able to use them for 10 years. In the mid 80s People began useing credit cards insted of check

    Batwench
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago

    This comment has been deleted.

    DeoManus Argentem
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I still have the original checkbook from when I opened my account at 18 (I'm 42) and have used maybe 5 of the checks over those nearly 25 years. They still have their place for larger amounts because most US banks have a pretty low limit on debit or cash withdrawals or other electronic transfers like Zelle, Venmo(usually $5,000 or less per day). EG, I wrote a check to purchase my condo (6-figures) - I suppose I could have wired the money, but there are fees for that. A simple check at closing was easy peasy.

    Calane E. Vanya
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    2. and 3. doesn't seem to be unique for the US. I think that most of the people despise some/all of their country's politicians. and it's generally hard to maintain really un-biased media

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    Despite many Americans voicing their lack of pride, this hasn't stopped people from flocking to the country in search of a better life. The so-called American Dream... The United States had, until recently, seen 50 years of rapid growth in terms of the number of people immigrating there.

    "In January 2025, 53.3 million immigrants lived in the United States – the largest number ever recorded. In the ensuing months, however, more immigrants left the country or were deported than arrived," reports Pew Research Center. "By June, the country’s foreign-born population had shrunk by more than a million people, marking its first decline since the 1960s."

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    #7

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Seeing someone post on Reddit the other day about feeling guilty for calling a coworker an ambulance because they knew their wage and worried they would leave them in debt.. my mind was blown.

    Tissnowjoke , camstejim/Unsplash (not the actual photo) Report

    Nova Rook
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Life saving is for the wealthy.

    Petra Peitsch
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No matter, if they have insurance, or not ... anyway won't matter, because they won't pay even for their empployee denying your covering.

    #8

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Having opinion presented as "news".

    dannydevon , Jason Leung/Unsplash (not the actual photo) Report

    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Fox was the first network to figure out that if you want to insert editorial opinions into the news, you just have to start by saying "Some say..."

    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Christiane Amanpour on The Daily Show: "Get your news from reputable, or at least several, sources". DJT's war on journalism is VERY close, IMO, of being a Constitutional violation. Yes, they skew stuff on both sides, but you fight that with facts, not criminalization.

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    #9

    Hand passing US dollar bill in a close-up transaction, illustrating money exchange related to metal detectors at school. Tipping as standard.

    Misrabelle , DC Studio/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Laserleader
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This only a standard for businesses that pay LESS than LEGAL FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE and expect tips to cover the rest. I view it as a federal crime, and I have no idea how they get away with it. I am a small courier service and we have a no solicitation policy, where mentioning or asking for tips is never allowed, but if people want to gift us something that's their choice.

    General Anaesthesia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The federal minimum wage for servers and other tipped employees is $2.13 per hour. You must pay your tipped employees at least $2.13 per hour.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When you think about it, the American public is paying the salary of a lot of employees through tips like welfare, food stamps, etc, because the businesses that hire those employees won't pay them a decent wage.

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    According to Pew Research Center's analysis of Census Bureau data in June this year, 51.9 million immigrants lived in the U.S. and 15.4% of all U.S. residents were immigrants. That's down from a recent historic high of 15.8%, notes the center.

    So, what are the main reasons someone would want to move to the United States?

    "At the heart of immigration decisions is the push-pull dynamic," explain the experts over at Boundless, an immigration company. "Push factors like violence, poverty, and political instability compel people to leave, while pull factors such as job opportunities, education, family connections, and safety draw them to the U.S."

    #10

    Young woman carrying shopping bags on an escalator, illustrating metal detectors at school as a safety measure debated in America. Having to mentally add sales taxes on everything you buy. In Europe 9.95 means paying 9.95.

    anon:

    Every state has different tax.

    anon , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The only country that can't figure this out

    Victor Botha
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The "every state has different tax" argument just doesn't cut it. Why do the state not just add their "different" tax to the item so that what you see is what you pay. In South Africa we have zero rated items and VAT items. If we can figure out how to get our cash registers to add up everything without making a mistake between zero rated and taxable, surely each state could do the same? It's not rocket science

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That was what I was thinking originally, but that'd involve different price tickets for different states for companies that have many branches across different states and that would probably be seen as too much effort for them (even though in actuality it wouldn't be that difficult to do).

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    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That would pis‍s me right off. Our sales tax is set federally, so all states are the same, but it's included in the price you see on the shelf. On your receipt you'll see which items have been taxed and the amount of tax you've paid in total for your goods.

    Victor Botha
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exactly, like I said in my comment, it's pretty easy. Some of our receipts actually show each item with pre tax, tax amount and total inclusive as a line item.

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    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It has taken me several years to believe that when I go into a store here in France I don't have to mentally scramble to see how much my total will actually be, especially for a small item. When an item has a price on it, that's actually the price you pay at check-out. Who thought that would take a while to get used to?

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Every state has different tax." - then display both prices. It's not ****ing difficult.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hey anon, in Europe you have different VAT per country or even per service. And we manage. don't play dumb. Unless you aren't 'playing'....

    liam newton-harding
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Read that back to yourself..."different Countries have different VAT"...America is ONE Country, you muppet.

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    Ariom Dahl
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Australia it is compulsory to include GST in the total price.

    Foxglove🇮🇪
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Even if tax differs between states, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to display the price including tax in this shop!

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Every county has a different sales tax.

    Noltha
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And? Any European country has its own regulations for VAT.

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    #11

    Female students in graduation gowns holding diplomas outside a school building, representing metal detectors at school context. Paying for college for 30 years after you graduated.

    pingerlol , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Becoming more widespread, unfortunately.

    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Both girls came out of college $60k in debt. One has nearly paid hers off, the other is a teacher, and is eligible for forgiveness from the feds/State for 10 years service. On the plus side, the teacher (Spec Ed) is currently taking on-line masters courses paid for by the Saginaw/Chippewa Indian tribe.

    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There are a lot of people who, realistically, will never get out of student loan debt.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Again, this is something that will come back to bite our worthless politicians in the a*s big time. Without a degree, people make less money. Making less money means they pay fewer taxes. Fewer taxes means less money to the infrastructure, the schools, the libraries, the whole fabric of a town. Once all that crumbles, the town is gone. But we still have idiots in Congress who would rather be the big t**d in a run-down toilet than actually do something for their constituents and make their states something to be proud of.

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is also an England thing, although the loan setup is much more reasonable and sensible than in the US, as the payments are only taken when you earn over a certain threshold (about £22,000 per year) and only a percentage of the amount above that threshold (currently 9%). You also cannot fall into default with the repayments, and the debt is cancelled after a certain amount of time, which depends on when the loan was taken out as there are different plans.

    Namea
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Husband didn't even graduate and had 30k in student debt in 2010. Now in 2025 after paying 800 every month he only owes 25k!

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    #12

    Man sitting on a couch looking stressed and anxious, illustrating concerns about metal detectors at school safety. Seeing a possible serious medical problem with yourself and going “ehh”.

    woopbeeboop:

    No literally. Most Americans go to the doctor as the last option and not the first one.

    PlayedUOonBaja:

    Yeah, I ignored a non-stop splitting migraine for 3 months before I finally went to the Doctor. Well, technically I waited until the migraine became a Hemorrhagic stroke, then I finally decided to go see one. In the back of an ambulance.

    xx_Fiddler_xx , ndreypopov/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This was the main reason my spouse and I moved from the US - our concerns that healthcare would wipe us out financially as we aged. Of course, the political climate made it essential to leave as well. I feel a mixture of joy that we are somewhere that we feel safe from the fear of losing everything to a health crisis (and the hellscape that politics have turned the country into) and guilt that others can't have the same security that we now feel.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the recent article that compared the USA and Europe, most arguments pro USA were: "you can make a lot of money". And how is one to use that money, if one's dead? So, forgive me if I prefer our national health services, free at point of use.

    Crystal M
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If myself or my husband ever require long term care, we are going to have to do the unthinkable.

    Tommy DePaul
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What: buy a long-term care insurance policy?

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    Tommy DePaul
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You go to an ER and don't pay the bill. It's not rocket science.

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    A survey conducted by Boundless in 2025 found that nearly half of recent immigrants moved to the U.S. for job opportunities. The company notes that immigrants are vital to the U.S. labor market and often fill critical roles in agriculture, construction, and healthcare.

    "They’re also more likely than U.S.-born individuals to start businesses, fueling innovation and job creation," adds the site.

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    But economic opportunity isn't the only reason families choose America...

    #13

    School bathroom stalls with metal locks and slight gaps between the doors, highlighting security measures in schools. Large gaps above, below and between the bathroom stalls....

    coleus:

    We're weird. We hate public indecency, but have no problem with big stall gaps.

    KimPTM , Alcatraz1331(not the actual photo) Report

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Before anyone gets in here to defend this weirdness and shout "NOBODY IS LOOKING! OMG! SO WHAT!" It literally costs nothing to make doors that close without a disgusting big gap, every other country seems to be able to manage, and why the héck are you so determined to defend it?

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We arent defending it. We agree it is weird. Bucees has individual room stalls floor to celing. Glorious! Always stop on roadtrips.

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    #14

    Man wearing sunglasses driving a car on a highway with countryside view, focused on the road ahead. If you drive for five hours in the United States, you’re pretty much still in the same place.

    If you drive for five hours in Europe, everyone’s talking funny and the cheese is different.

    insainodwayno:

    In the US, 100 miles is nothing, 100 years is a lot.

    In Europe, 100 miles is a lot, 100 years is nothing.

    The stone retaining wall for the front of our property (here in Germany) is dated 1846, and it's nothing special. Many of the houses in the old part of our small town are 1300 and older.

    KaimeiJay , pvproductions/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Australia, you've just visited the neighbours...

    Batwench
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That’s a short journey.

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    Plentyofoomph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In my state in Australia, you can drive for 16 hours and barely get across a quarter of the state, then see artwork that's 40,000 years old

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When we first moved to France from the US we were at the mayor's office and saw the blueprint of our town from when Napoleon was surveying the area, and our house was on it. However, the town itself was built during a little tiff between the English and the French that lasted about 100 years and an earlier version of our house was plotted and built as it is a bastide town.

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "is talking different and cheese is different" LOL

    Autumn
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the US you can drive 5 hours and find funny speech and different (sometimes better) cheese.

    John Dilligaf
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    when I was stationed in Germany there was a bar in the town. It was in a building that was older than the USA was. This was the bar's "new location" you understand, they had been forced move locations sometime in the 15th century. The town itself dates back to the 11th century.

    Tim Douglass
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Five hours gets me from my house in Oregon to my Sister in Washington. I also regularly drive 9 hours across Oregon to visit my son and grandkids just over into Idaho. Not a big deal, we have the roads and cars for it.

    Jane Doe-Doe
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One of my local pubs dates back to 1505 and there are plenty that are way way older

    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My house was built in 1880, there are others here that are much older

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My whole neighbourhood is a 'colony' from the 1870s, and it's not the oldest one. No biggie. And they are copies of the buildings in the "New Town". We also have an "Old Town". :)

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    #15

    Front porch decorated with American flags and flowers, illustrating quintessentially American home style and culture. HOAs like wth. Other people who don't pay your mortgage telling you how to maintain your home.

    throw_away_17381 , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We (possibly, depending on what OP includes in the concept of 'maintain') have something similar in the form of strata, but this is only for (some) units and apartments. Essentially you pay a levy which covers repairs to communal areas such as driveways, the building itself, etc and they may also set rules like you're not allowed animals or whatnot. I don't think houses have a similar thing, though.

    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    American, I have an idea, if you want rid of your HOA, may I suggest fostering a few Glaswegians, scousers, brummies, Mancunians and a sprinkle east and south Londoners and apply beer, I can PROMISE you, nobody will be approaching your house again especially if you play football on the TV while administering said beer , I find (I know this will be censored) screeching “f**k off ya wee maggot, COME HERE AND SAY THAT, COME HERE AND SAY THAT, YA Kock! Usually works wonders

    Manny
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Other people who don't pay your mortgage telling you how to maintain your home." This is why they need to be banned. How they ever were allowed to form in the first place, I don't get.

    Kevin Hickey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You CHOSE to buy a house with an HOA because you didn't want to look at "undesirables". Don't expect any sympathy from us when they deem YOU an "undesirable".

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Do council houses in Great Britain have some of the same issues or has that been done away with?

    Fungus John
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The difference being council houses are paid for by the council, so you gotta follow their rules

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Investigate if the so-called HOA has a real legal basis. Many don't and are a big bluff.

    Boundless found that the U.S. education system is also a big drawcard when it comes to immigration. "With over 1 million international students currently enrolled, the U.S. remains a global leader in higher education," the site elaborates. "Many students also pursue long-term work opportunities and permanent residency after graduating."

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    Of course, family can also be a reason why someone would move to America. Boundless revealed that nearly a quarter of immigrants arrive in the States to join loved ones who are already there.

    #16

    Aerial view of a busy highway and city landscape illustrating quintessentially American infrastructure and culture. Road infrastructure, terrible public transport.

    I almost exclusively walk everywhere in my city or use public transport if I'm in a hurry.

    anon , inguskruklitis/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not only that, but the road infrastructure is hostile to pedestrians. I tried walking around Addison in Texas, and it was dreadful trying to even get 3 doors down, as everything was separated by parking lots and waste ground. Crossing the road was a nightmare as there were so few crossing points.

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Depends on the city is even faster walk than use the car (I speak for pisa for example)

    Christina Dutta
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    An English colleague was stopped by the police while walking 500 yards from his hotel the shops in America.

    Calane E. Vanya
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw a map showing railway lines in Europe and North America. I'm still not sure if it was real, the difference was just too big.

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    #17

    Smiling young woman with curly blonde hair lying down, representing metal detectors at school security concept. Light-emitting white teeth.

    FlattenYourCardboard , The Yuri Arcurs Collection/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    sturmwesen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A friend had hers done this year. She made sure the dentist understood she did NOT want american white

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Great term. I can now refer to Rylan's lewtness. :D

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's a bit weird, to say the least. Teeth aren't naturally white!

    Tyranamar Seuss
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah but all you have to do is buy a few Crest White Strips. Pretty easy to get white teeth.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Only if you can afford it. It's also how we know someone is in the 1%.

    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Great idea! Saves you on needing a flashlight at night.

    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, this is nonsense. Go to any Mediterranean holiday spot and it's wall to wall veneers. This is the flip side of saying British people all have bad teeth.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At least we have our own teeth - and no debt for being turned into lighthouses.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Um i watch lots of reality shows and every influencer on you tube/tik tok in Europe/Austrailia all get veneers very white. Ahem UK, Austrailia Love Islands!

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The plastic people on Love Island are very much not representative of the UK population and are highly influenced by American beauty standards.

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    #18

    Row of American flags outside a school building, illustrating security concerns like metal detectors at school. Those safety bags for school "emergencies", yano the bullet proof ones, and security in schools.

    mayners , evsergeev36/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "School shooting" isn't even a term in other counties.

    Börje Strömming
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Remember looking up the statistics a while back. It t was something like - there are more school shootings in usa per year then the whole of Europe have had the last 100 years.

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    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw an article about bullet proof bunkers in classrooms, while I’m glad they are there as I wouldn’t want anyone to get hurt, the fact that American schools need them is heart breaking 💔 we have our fair share of idiots here in the UK but I can’t get over the fear parents must have when their kid messages them in school time, I’d be on my nerves all the time.

    Laserleader
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well oversized schools, without school nurses or psychologist, or even councilors who care about anyone but the wealthiest students, is probably the real problem. Nothing like having a troubled teen be bullied, ignored, and have no safe place, to lead to hate.

    Helena
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Pretty sure the problem is the easy availability and fetishization of guns.

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    If you're considering moving to the United States, you might want to familiarize yourself with this listicle … so that you aren’t caught off-guard when you see your neighbor disposing of trash in the kitchen sink or receiving a fine from your HOA for not mowing your front lawn!

    Do you live in America already? Tell us you live there without telling us you live there, in the comments below.

    #19

    American flag waving with a city skyline in the background symbolizing metal detectors at school in the United States. Guns. I live in the country where even some of the police don't carry guns. But I heard almost everyone had it over there.

    azen96 , dhdezvalle/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not everyone, but it's way too easy for most to get one. Being afraid of your own government or fellow citizens to the point where you need lethal weapons is a cause for medical intervention in most countries.

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the UK, hardly any of the police carry guns. They get stab vests and tasers if they are lucky. We do have specialist firearms officers, who are brought in if a gun is seen or suspected.

    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not even close to everyone. The numbers come from the fanatics who have dozens.

    DeoManus Argentem
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Most people do not have firearms, and most those who do never take them outside of their homes. But many who do own them have multiple (hunters, competitors, etc.). I have five, but I'm not a "gun nut" or criminal - they rarely leave my home unless I'm going to the range - I'm not even a hunter, I just find target practice fun and relaxing.

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    You hear a lot that isn't true. We hear that Brits all have atrocious teeth from poor dental care. Of course I know that is false.

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited)

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Montana has more guns than people. I own more than I have numbers in my phone. I'm sure I'll be down voted into oblivion, but guess what has two thumbs and is indifferent at best? This guy.

    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment has been deleted.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    I see alot of knife incidents and bombings happening over the oceans. Not to disagree with the whole world about Americas gun policies but no where is perfect or 100% safe.

    Andy
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The issue is though, the only reason you don't hear about knife incidents as much in the USA is because it is dwarfed by gun violence. For example, you will hear right wing media defend gun ownership by saying in the UK there is knife violence. However, the homicide rate by stabbing in the USA is actually far higher than the UK, but is not discussed as it is just a small proportion of overall homicides when compared to the gun rate.

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    #20

    Young woman holding a remote control focused on TV, representing the concept of metal detectors at school in American culture. Political commercials that are trashing their opponent. When I moved to the US, some of these commercials are just downright horrendous. No where else does this happen.

    MaxRockafeller , cookie_studio/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also becoming more common elsewhere, unfortunately.

    V
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Didn't work so well for the LNP in Australia last election though, lol.

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    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Which leads to (at least in my country) a incompetent government whose greatest argument for getting voted was that they prevent the other party from governing.

    driedgrapes
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah whatever happened to stating your case? Not lobbing insults like grade school wth

    Namea
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And a lot of them lie or mislead because people are gullible enough to believe them.

    #21

    Man sitting outdoors by water holding a sandwich and water bottle, representing metal detectors at school topic. Being too obese to walk.

    Smooth-Ostrich1514 , fentonroma143/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Again, becoming more common elsewhere, unfortunately.

    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This isn’t only the states! As an undertaker here in England I can tell you we have started to have work done to widen doorways to accommodate larger coffins

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's because we have HFCS in everything. It needs to be banned but some members of Congress just lack a spine.

    Barbara Wilcock
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If an adult is aware of what they are eating then their choice. But its overweight kids that upsets me

    #22

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Not having any idea about your nations' foreign policy or illegal wars.

    dannydevon , Wesley Tingey/Unplash (not the actual photo) Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "We alone won WWII" - "And then why was Germany occupied by 4 countries after WWII?" - (void) ---- in all fairness, that isn't uniquely American. Works in Britain as well.

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    But in the US we remember that GB would have lost both world wars without our contributions. (Also the Australian, Indian, Canadians, etc)

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    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "We never lost a war" yea right.

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    #23

    Elderly female doctor with stethoscope sitting at desk in medical office with laptop and nurse in background Getting a bill for healthcare.

    Rashthatsme , DC Studio/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's where the word "freedumb" comes from. ;-)

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    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Standing in line at the pharmacist and wondering what exactly will be covered this week, as the coverage year has just changed and you don't know how much will be covered this year. Going for a referral for a suspected allergy to penicillin, having the first appointment, and not being able to return for a second one because at the first appointment the insurance only covered the first 1,500 out of 3,000 dollars and the physician's office couldn't tell how much the second appointment might be. Then having to have expensive antibiotics because one doesn't know whether they are allergic to penicillin, which is much cheaper.

    Daya Meyer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yesterday I received a bill from my health insurance about a ride with an ambulance from one hospital to another. The first hospital could not provide the treatment I nedeed so I was transported to another one. The bill was in total 10 Euros, I live in Germany.

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    #24

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Having a pledge of allegiance, especially one that's practically mandated in public schools.

    djae_ , Getty Images/Unsplash (not the actual photo) Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But doesn't mean nothing in daily life. Neither the politicians, nor the police, not even the people seem to care about it much. It's all me, me, me.

    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Along the same lines as "Thank you for your service", to me.

    Namea
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's basically trying to brainwashing kids into patriotism that the government hasn't earned.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The American flag is an official symbol of the US. So is the bald eagle. So let's all stand, put our right hand on our hearts, and recite in unison "I pledge allegiance to the bald eagle, and the republic for which it stands..." Now let's try it for another official symbol, the Great Seal of the United States.

    #25

    United States Capitol building with trees and grassy lawn under a blue sky, symbolizing metal detectors at school security. Being able to criticize your government without being jailed.

    anon , wirestock/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    David Paterson
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You think so? Just try being "politically incorrect", whistleblowing, or reveal a government "secret".

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ha ha! If we didn't take the pïss out of our politicians, they'd think something was wrong!

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Until Trump hauls out his ropes for the Trump executions of seditionists, Democrats, and everyone with an opinion he disagrees with. He's such an a*****e.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless you tell people about American war crimes, of course.

    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tell those who know me I am an 'enemy of the people' due to the pushback I have given my GOP Rep.

    Nova Rook
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Pretty sure that citizens are being punished for speech/thought crimes in the US. We know non citizens who committed speech crimes were punished.

    Jalunney
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You're wrong on that one. Didn't they make the Sedition Act for this exact thing.

    #26

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Americans call the 24 hour digital clocks “military time” and it’s actually how every other country views digital time.

    brainey95 , rawpixel.com/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I am italian and we use both

    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Both in Australia too. The funniest thing is when I have to put in the times for my shifts on our rostering program, it has to be in 24 hour time, but then it automatically changes them to 12 hour time!

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    Nova Rook
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As a kid we used to call the 24 hour time "Hockey times" because the only place we would see it would be on our hockey schedules.

    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This American doesn't call it 'military time.' It's 24-hour time. The military uses it, but they didn't invent it and don't own it.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't like 24-hour time. Its clock doesn't allow me to go back to sleep at 10 a.m. on the "mistaken" belief it's bed time.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It works here and that's all that matters.

    Eri J
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It took me a ridiculously long time to understand how military time worked. I didn't get it until I started watching Mash 4077 some years ago.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited)

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Well, no. Most use 12 hour.

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    #27

    Statue of Liberty at sunset with clear sky and full moon, symbolizing iconic American landmarks and culture. Writing the date format as mm-dd-yyyy instead of dd-mm-yyyy.

    silkybow- , TravelScape/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And so inconsistent. Why don't they also write mm:hh:ss?

    Forrest McCanless
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    26NOV25 - solves it all in a drawing title block

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ever think you're the weird ones for the way you write it? LOL

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    #28

    Person wearing brown boots and blue jeans sitting on a metal chair inside a room with plants and white floor visible. Wearing shoes in someone else’s house.

    thetriplem21 , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Laserleader
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Alaska we have mudrooms, shoes, boots, coats, and raingear get taken off there.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Umm, we do this most places outside the tropics...

    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who's "we"? We definitely don't do that over here. Unless you count slippers.

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    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not exactly. Shoes in the house has always been customary for me, my family and almost everyone I know. Having said that, the person whose home it is makes the rules.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Same here. Where i live, visitors removing their shoes is about as common and welcome as them removing their pants. (In certain cases, a lot less welcome.)

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    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    in italy we do but I find it gross

    The Short Lady
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For the most part, I've noticed that no shoes in the house is more observed in places with extreme weather, especially snow.

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When I wrnt barefoot in house my dad would intentionally step on my feet.

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Americans "Shoes in the house is gross ewww". Also Americans "Bare feet are sooo disgusting I don't want to see your stinky feet ewwww". Make up your minds.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How about "Tastes can differ and do."?

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    #29

    White pickup truck parked outside near an industrial building under clear sky with no visible metal detectors at school. Driving around cities with big trucks.

    LuScorpio68 , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You know what they say. Little hands and little feet equal big truck.

    driedgrapes
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I heard a story once, some exhausty truck pulled away, and the person telling the story loudly yelled out their widow SORRY ABOUT YOUR P***S!

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    WindySwede
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I would like a truck, but an Kei truck from Japan!

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, those are adorable! I agree 😆

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    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We'd call the one in the picture a dual-cab ute (Aus). So under the law it'd just be considered a car (albeit a big one). A truck is a heavy vehicle (generally commercial) for which you need a separate license.

    WindySwede
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A 'truck' (swe) here is a forklift. Bonus, a 'cab' (cabriolet, swe) is a convertible (car with roof thingy that can be opened).

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    Kid Murray
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw an old early 70's pickup the other day. It looked like the nicest man in the world drives it. Like the sort who will help their neighbour harvest a crop without being asked. Pickups now just look like a******s drive them. The trucks themselves look mean and aggressive and angry.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They're like SUVs - we call them yuppie grocery getters.

    #30

    “What Things Are Normal For Americans But Weird For Non-Americans?” (43 Surprising Answers) Canadian here. What I find weird is that your conservatives (Republicans) are coloured red while your liberals (Democrats) are coloured blue. In Canada it is the opposite: Conservative Party, blue. Liberal Party, red.

    Oh, and you leave out the u in colour. wth?

    InsaneRabbitDaddy , Alex Shuper/Unsplash (not the actual photo) Report

    JL
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    WT‍F BP - Is there something naughty about the 2nd and 3rd stars in a sequence of 5 that requires blurring out?

    Robert T
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's the elephants and donkeys that confuse me. I guess they both deliver excrement!

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, that used to puzzle me, but in fact those colours were used a long time before Communism and its association with the Red Flag.

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Everyone knows what you mean no matter if you spell it 'color' or 'colour'. Not quite sure why the poster's getting their knickers in a knot over 'colo(u)r"; there are also many other words that Americans spell/pronounce differently to us. Eg: We use 'aluminium' foil, not 'aluminum' foil. I find it interesting to compare the differences, personally, but it's not like one is better than the other.

    Khavrinen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    BP "censoring" stars again... ( At least it's doing it fairly to both parties. )

    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    More confusing is the Australia Liberals are actually less liberal in ideology than the Labor party. Like the US though, both major parties are right wing.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It comes from TV news coverage of one presidential election (I forget which). On an election map, states that had gone Republican were red, ones gone Democratic were blue, and the undecided white. Red white, and blue being the national colors. (I've always thought choosing red for Republicans was a bit of a nose tweak.)

    Foxglove🇮🇪
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As far as I have seen, blue is conservative and red is socialist nearly everywhere outside the US

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You guys waste ink writing an extra letter, wth?

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, nowadays it's wasting that extra keystroke rather than ink, but yes; yes we do.

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    #31

    Smiling young woman outdoors wearing a winter coat and scarf with a colorful graffiti wall blurred in the background. Being super outgoing and friendly and yet at the same time being very aware and protective of our personal space.

    We'll talk your ear off and charm the pants off of you but if we are on a bus or subway car that is all but empty with us in there, sit as far away from us as you can. Personal space, please. I know this may seem like the opposite points of each other but to Americans, it makes perfect sense. I'm serious. If we are the only two people on a bus and you want to have a conversation with us, don't sit next to us. That will make us feel as uncomfortable as hell. Instead, sit as far away as possible from us and shout at us. We won't think of it as rude. And it will signal that you are friendly and respectable. Then if we want you to get closer, we will tell you to come closer. But it is then and only then that you should do so.

    inksmudgedhands , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Speaking without actually saying something as a way of keeping the other off your back.

    KatWitch57
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not just America, give personal space everywhere.

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    #32

    Writing and cashing checks all the time. I'm 54, and checks were something my parents used when I was little. What a quaint, old-timey thing to be doing these days.

    CleverDad Report

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They're virtually obsolete here, though. For some reason the DVLA (think DMV) only accept cheques or postal order(!), but they're very much an outlier.

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    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Checks? Is that a thing from last century....?

    Scott Rackley
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can't remember the last time I saw someone pay with a check.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I still use checks to pay some of my bills because holy Christ, it's such a pain in the b**t to go to the website, log in with yet another password and find the pay function. Some companies practically make it a quest. All I have to do with a check is to fill it out, put it in a (supplied) envelope and drop it in my mailbox on the way out. I'm sorry writing a check is sooooo difficult for some people. You have my sympathy for not being able to do something so hard.

    quentariel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm sorry that going into a website and logging in with password is sooo difficult for some people, you have my sympathies. Jokes aside, I don't even think you can pay with a cheque here anymore. And paying with bank apps take about 10 seconds, is secure and money is tranferred immediately.

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    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We...are...dinosaurs. We refuse to get a debit card so far.

    Annette Jones
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, I only see some granny occasionally still write a check at the grocery store. Many places no longer accept checks.

    John Austin
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Had a bunch of US tourists last year asking to pay via "tap it" or whatever you guys call it.... they seemed to think our backward nation would not have it... we then realised it was what they called contactless.. a system we've had for many years

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I write checks every week. But, yes, I am old enough to be the OP's parent.

    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    All the time? I'll admit I had to write one once this year, but a) it's November and 2) it was for the city gas inspector, which an extremely rare thing for me (once in my life, so far).

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Most places don't take cheques here any more (Australia). I think places like car dealerships would still take bank cheques, though.

    V
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Only for the next 3/4 years, then they will no longer be legal tender

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    #33

    Alice drills in schools.

    Brilliant-String-727 Report

    MoBeLa
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, and is a training program designed to prepare students and staff for active shooter situations” The mantra has since been shortened to “Run, hide, fight,” but that doesn’t have an acronym that sounds like the title of a children’s book.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I found fire drills alarming enough when I was a little child. How do US children live with that, with the knowledge that it happens often - and with the awareness that the adults who should fight tooth and nail to end this shyte just....do next to nothing, apart from the occasional online outrage?

    azubi
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Europe we got a song "who the f**k is Alice"

    Maren Villadsen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Watch 'Thoughts and prayes' on HBO. This is so hard on the childrens mental health

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    #34

    Circumcisions.

    anon Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes it's necessary. Having had to have it, I'm a fan actually. Many advantages.

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    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "it should be higher" but then it gets a strange meaning

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It was once claimed that circumcision reduced the chance of p***s cancer, but further study found insufficient support for that. Of course, you're not going to get cancer in your f******n if you no longer have one.

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've heard only one comment actually voiced, by a girlfriend. "Much better" she said.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've been told this too. My girlfriend is particularly well versed in the matter, too!

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    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's remarkably common in many countries if you care to find out.

    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Doesn't make it right. Especially for religious or traditional reasons. If it's necessary for mans health, fine, but every other reason is nonsense.

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    Bob Maloogalooga
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Meh, they look better cut... just sayin..

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    If I had a son, he'd be circumcised and if someone who had absolutely nothing to do with it tried to tell me what I should or shouldn't have done, I'd tell you to take a long walk off a short plank. It's none of your business, so keep your nosey nose out.

    Valegro
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So your child does not get a say in whether his genitals get mutilated or not? Nice. You gonna mutilate your daughter's too?

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    #35

    Aerial view of a dense cityscape illustrating urban safety concerns like metal detectors at school. City design. American cities and stores are designed for access by car, not on foot. Sadly that's permeating to other countries, too.

    fleepo , TravelScape/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not Germany, and not Scotland, as far as I can tell. Probably not the rest of the UK either. Can't imagine that would take hold anywhere in Europe. Why would we, we have public transport (btw, Scotland thinks about making bus travel free for everyone - currently it's kids, teenagers, young adults and seniors who travel for free. Boohoo, socialism! Communism! Whateverism!

    The Short Lady
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With old city centers and many historic buildings, towns and cities were built when walking was the main method of transport so, of course cities are walkable. Unfortunately, much of the US was built after the automotive and the oil and gas interests had taken hold and influenced the way cities were built.

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    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Could that be due to most of our cities being developed after cars became common?

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    #36

    A ceramic mug with pink and purple stripes heating inside a microwave oven in a kitchen setting. Warming your coffee or tea in the microwave. dont you guys have a kettle???

    beigeturtletail , Jomkwan/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I seem to recall reading that because the US runs on 110-120v, it's slower to boil than countries that use 220-240v and so it's quicker for you guys to use the microwave?

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No, this is not true. Technology Connections on YouTube tested this.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lord get over it. I do have a kettle. But when im sick i want to heat water up in microwave for 1 minute for tea so it doesnt scald my throat. Every morning I do kettle heat water for my coffee carafe.

    V
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a kettle that can heat water to the temperature you want it.

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    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I am not putting an already brewed cup back into the kettle. Use kettle (or coffeepot) for initial heating of water, yes.

    PirellisMiracleElixer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No. Most households don’t have a kettle. I do but I’m a huge tea enthusiast but I’m unique in my family. Most families in my area boil water in the microwave or on the stove in a cooking pot.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Like I need one more thing to sit on my stove top? Boiling water is boiling water, who cares how it boils?

    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just as I don't need another thing to take up some of my limited counter space. Either way, it has to take up space somewhere when you're not using it.

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    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm American, and I have a kettle. It's the kind you put on the stovetop, not an electric one. It is for the initial boil so you can MAKE tea or coffee. It is not for reheating you beverage that's gone cold.

    Spittnimage
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What do you do when your tea gets cold add more water to already weak-looking tea?

    The Short Lady
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why do you care? No one is making you do it that way.

    moggiemoo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who warms tea or coffee in a kettle?

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nobody. We boil the kettle and then make tea or coffee.

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    #37

    Expressing huge amounts of patriotism only when someone from another continent criticizes us.

    I talk so much [trash]about our country and our government, but the second a European says anything I turn into the most stereotypical ‘Murica-Loving [jerk] you’d ever meet.

    BasalTripod9684 Report

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not really something to be proud of. Real patriotism is to see one's country's weaknesses and flaws - and if possible, work to make them a thing of the past.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Patriotism isn't what you say about your country - it's what you do about it.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Everywhere has governtment issues. Not a contest.

    #38

    Drinking a small amount of alcohol then shouting WHOOO as if you've done something interesting.

    dannydevon Report

    RamiRudolph
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the same vein, acting like getting drunk is a fun pasttime. But I guess that's not uniquely American

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you want an example, I'd suggest looking at stereotypical Aussies in Bali, Thailand etc. (... actually, don't. The bogan count is too high.)

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    #39

    Garbage disposal unit installed in kitchen sink.

    SuvenPan Report

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Food waste belongs in the 'compostables' wheelie bin, not in the sewers.

    SaladSpinnerDeux
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Canada as well. It interferes with water processing.

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We tried installing them in pool tables, but there were all these complaints.

    Tyranamar Seuss
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Long live the garbage disposal! We have these bc our plumbing is young and can handle ground up food being washed down the sewers. When I lived in an older house the plumbing was just not compatible with a garbage disposal.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So, it's basically a replacement for composting food leftovers?

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've had a garbage disposal and I'd give a lot to have another one. If you live in an apartment and don't have a garden, what the hell are you supposed to do with this stuff after it composts, besides just throw it out, which is what a garbage disposal does in the first place?

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    #40

    Food that comes in a box. Seeing ppl comenout of grocery stores with boxes instead of veggies and fruit is really weird to me.

    CloudBuilder44 Report

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    America is full of food deserts and c**p food is cheap.

    #41

    Modern living room with colorful armchairs, sofa, and large windows, illustrating metal detectors at school concept. No ceiling lights in living rooms.

    anon , 4595886/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Huh? Every home i have ever been in has living room lights.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes do, sometimes don't....

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is actually common in Switzerland. Most floor level sockets are 3-way, with one of the three connected to the light switch, so nearly all lighting is via stand-alone lamps plugged in where you want them. I've always added ceiling lighting where possible, although that can be more complicated than it might seem if there is no wiring built in where you need it.

    The Short Lady
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've found this more in England than in the US. My opinion is that it's best to have ceiling and task lighting. Different amounts of light for different purposes.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a friend who uses her ceiling light only in her living room. That is the coldest, most uncomfortable room I've ever been in. I use lamps in my living room and it looks cosy and welcoming.

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    #42

    American flag next to a tape measure, wrench, and pen on a wooden table symbolizing metal detectors at school. Miles, gallons, 110 volt outlets, feet and more...

    Tina_Sammer , ungvar/Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's what many of us grew up with in the US and doesn't take long to switch when you move from the US. I am now "bilingual" in Fahrenheit/centigrade, MPH/KPH, and culinary measurements. ;-)

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Except the gallon is different from a British gallon, and miles, feet and most others were absolutely not British in origin, it's just that they hung on to them a lot longer than their continental neighbours.

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Next, they'll ask us to give up Imperial margarine.

    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Volts are used worldwide. Sorry if you're displeased by the number of them we were handed.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But probably using centimetres, millimetres, nanometres...

    Robert Millar
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    110V. Is a good idea talking about lethality of shocks, but a bad idea because of heating and losses due to double the current.

    #43

    Asking someone you just met what they do for a living is an annoyingly offensive habit for "Americans." When I first meet someone from another country they never ask.

    undivided-assUmption Report

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's pretty common in Australia to do this.

    Autumn
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Common small talk. I feel other countries can handle small talk

    Pferdchen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Along the lines of asking where you went to school. They seem like innocuous questions to us but can very much be about establishing a pecking order / social hierarchy.

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm not sure that's really an American thing. Asking them how much they earn might be though, according to a recent thread.

    Danielle Gleeson
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It was the same in the Philippines when I visited

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In America neither the asker nor the answerer regard it as offensive. But like anyone, we resent people assuming their customs are the norm.

    Spittnimage
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    From what I understand the British Royal Family asks that question right after the introduction. Actually, there's a book on the RF on Amazon called ...And What Do You Do?

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    #44

    Correct me if I'm wrong, but I've heard peanut butter and jelly isn't a thing outside of America.

    Meh55252 Report

    Janissary35680
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Something similar in Turkey is tahin (tahini) and pekmez (grape molasses). It's great on toast, freshly-baked bread hot out of the oven, and--in the absence of anything else--a spoon. 😋

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes. Yes it is. But we don't call it jelly. It's jam. Sigh.

    Fungus John
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    its 2 different things. jam is actual fruit, jelly is just fruit flavoured gelatin

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    Jan Rosier
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I do a Belgian compromise : PB and chocolate spread. NO Nutella, but actual, dark, chocolate spread (abbreviated in Dutch to 'choco'). Sometimes the deluxe version : pb on one slice, choco on the other, and slices of banana in between.

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Try it. Its delicous. Kinda a quick snack.

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'll have to give it a go. Any flavour of jam (jelly) you'd recommend in particular that goes with the PB? Or is it just what you'd normally have with toast, etc? (Raspberry for me!)

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    SaladSpinnerDeux
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited)

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    It's peanut butter jelly time peanut butter jelly time peanut butter jelly peanut butter jelly... https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=s8MDNFaGfT4

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    #45

    American here, I've heard other places don't refrigerate eggs.

    Wolfofthezay Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They have a protective layer already.

    Foxglove🇮🇪
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    American eggs are washed in chlorine to clean off potential salmonella But this also removes the egg's natural protective layer, leaving the egg vulnerable to contamination and therefore it has to be refrigerated. European eggs don't need to be washed because the chickens are vaccinated so the eggs retain their protective layer and no refrigeration is required.

    KatWitch57
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As the owner of some very creative cats over the years, I've found eggs last better inside the fridge, rather than descending at speed from the work surface.

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    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's because they don't wash eggs like the US does.

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We still like to shock our relatives when they come over to visit from the US by coming home from the grocery store and leaving our eggs and milk on the shelf instead of refrigerating them right away. However, it did take a while to get used to it, I'll admit.

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    UHT milk, I assume? Disgusting stuff, but still the most common in France; thankfully fresh (pasteurised) milk has become much more common over the last 20 years or so.

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    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My eggs live in the fridge, but I remember when there was an egg shortage quite a few places were selling them off the shelf, and I assume nobody died 🤷🏽‍♀️

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Eggs don't need to be refrigerated until they are refrigerated. Then they have to stay refrigerated.

    PirellisMiracleElixer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don’t think that’s correct. I think washed eggs need to be refrigerated. The US washes eggs to prevent salmonella. Other countries don’t so the protective coating on the egg is intact.

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    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nah, leave them in a basket on the kitchen side, no need for the fridge

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    #46

    Ranch dressing.

    CazCMA Report

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sorry, but that is a hill I'll die on. I quite like ranch dressing and it is one of the few things I miss from the US. I can buy the occasional bottle of Paul Newman's at the local Carrefour, but I loved Hidden Valley ranch and I miss it a lot. However, I don't miss it enough that I would give up anything I've gained from moving out of the US.

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Olive oil and lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for the salad

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Even better... balsamic glaze! I discovered that one recently and it's delicious.

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    Janissary35680
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wikip: “buttermilk, salt, garlic, onion, black pepper, and herbs (commonly chives, parsley and dill), mixed into a sauce based on mayonnaise or another oil emulsion. Sour cream and yogurt are sometimes used in addition to, or as a substitute for, buttermilk and mayonnaise."

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Always dress when at a ranch. Saddle burrs can be quite painful.

    BookFanatic
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    LOL! A buddy and I (both US) were in Ireland when my friend asked for a side of Ranch with her fries. The poor waitress was utterly confused.

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Never understood the American obsession with this bland dressing.

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Properly made it is quite nice. I guess the popularity is just that it makes it easier to lubricate the bland, crispy, beige food as you eat it.

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    #47

    Getting sued.

    RalleTheGoat Report

    DeoManus Argentem
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unfortunately we have way more law schools than we need, graduating way more lawyers than we need - and everybody needs to get paid. It's also a big reason why our healthcare is so overpriced! The father of one of my best friends growing up was a physician and was paying almost $250k/year for malpractice insurance, and he's a pediatrician not an ortho/cardiac/neuro surgeon!

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes suing big corporations is the only way to make them change their behavior. McDonald's hot coffee judgement for example.

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    #48

    Fahrenheit and MPH.

    Najiku Report

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Fahrenheit is Polish/German, and it's really time to move on from it. We still use MPH/Miles in the UK, but that's largely because everyone is used to it and they'd have to change ALL the road signs. Most people can work in KM or miles, if needed.

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    #49

    Drinking rootbeer. It is almost exclusively sold in the USA.

    CuntSurgeon Report

    Gingersnap In Iowa
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Baby girl drinks root beer. Baby girl is the cat empress of the house.

    John Austin
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one i wish had gotten more popular abroad. Growing us with American friends meant I developed a taste for root beer, unfortunately good root beer can be hard to get or expensive in the UK

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Try to buy Hires root beer. It's the brand God drinks when He can find it.

    #50

    Small talk.

    woolalaoc Report

    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    While in Mexico me and my group of friends (all in our early 50’s) sat next to a group of Spring Breakers, totally lovely, calm, sensible young adults that were an absolute pleasure to talk to and they approached us! Talked to us about what they were studying, what they wanted to do in life and it was great, we all ended up having dinner together every night. It was weirded they wanted selfies with us to send to their parents who were probably not too far off our age, but truly lovely people.

    #51

    Saying hi to random strangers in public.

    I wasn't born in America but live here now. Still go home every few years. People like their privacy.

    anon Report

    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Some of us. My mum always will, but I rarely do.

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    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's common courtesy here to say good morning to anyone you pass in the street. 'Here' being smaller towns and villages, it's not so normal in the big cities, but still required when you enter a shop or restaurant for example.

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Heaven forfend you walk into a store or restaurant in France without greetings to the shop tender/owner.

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    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Come from being country of immigrants where everyone was a stranger.

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    #52

    Hunting

    In some areas deer season is such a big deal that schools close on opening day. Here hunting is the hobby of the poor masses instead of the rich elite like a lot of other countries.

    anon Report

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "I went and shot the maximum the game laws would allow: two game wardens, seven hunters, and a cow."

    MiniPurl
    Community Member
    Premium
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My first year teaching in a very rural school in the southern US, I was shocked that there was no school on the first day of deer season. It was an area the polar opposite of wealthy. I had no idea that was even a thing. I grew up 20 miles away, and it was just another day in school there. I think more of my kids parents lived off what they hunted instead of k*****g just to mount a head on their walls.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Schools close on opening day because people with guns are roaming the land.

    The Short Lady
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Every extra person hunting is an extra limit you can take and hopefully feed your family.

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    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Our district in Michigan has 'safety day' even though very few kids hunt anymore. Kids love it because it occurs a week before Thanksgiving so 2 shorts weeks of school.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, we hunt too. Not rich people, ordinary people. Sigh.

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We should hunt rich people. I've always felt that fox hunting should be legal as long as those of us opposed can take pot shots at the hunters. Level the playing field a little.

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    #53

    Family gathering around the table with Thanksgiving-style food, illustrating American traditions and metal detectors at school. Thanksgiving! People visiting from other countries have no reason to celebrate US Thanksgiving.

    thing_m_bob_esquire , Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    MontanaMariner
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wild. It's almost like it's an American tradition and holiday.

    PirellisMiracleElixer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There’s probably many US holidays that someone visiting wouldn’t celebrate. What a silly comment.

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And yet yesterday online I had three different Americans unironicalky ask me if I was visiting family for Thanksgiving. One of them seemed incapable of understanding why I was not celebrating it.

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    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, google "Erntedankfest" (German, "harvest-thanks-festival"). The actions may be different, but the USA is not the only country to celebrate harvest time. And why "people from other countries" should have "no reason" to celebrate US Thanksgiving - what the f**k? It's a family festivity with lots of food (and hopefully fun). What's exclusive about that? See, there it is again, American exceptionalism.....

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What are they giving thanks for? That Plymouth Rock didn't land on their ancestors? Why should I give a dámn?

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also Canadian tradition and holiday, they just do it a month earlier.

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I watch a French Chateau channel and they celebrate. Non are American. From London and South Africa mainly. One who lives from Argentina. Another from Ukraine. They love the concept of Thanksgiving. Its just gathering with friends/family & food, simple. Celebrate being grateful.

    Nichole Harris
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Umm how they gonna act like all that good isn't reason enough to celebrate it

    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In a way, I think it is as disrespectful to the Indigenous Americans, as having Australia Day on the 26th Jan is to Indigenous Australians. Celebrating British people coming and taking over their land.

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Some people regard not living in America as ample reason for giving thanks.

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    #54

    Having the light switch on the inside of the bathroom instead of outside.

    Pharmaceutical and lawyer commercials.

    Skunktoes Report

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So if outside washroom you could be naked showering and someone turns light off on you???? If no windows I would freak out.

    Tyranamar Seuss
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah. We have way too many viscous siblings to leave the lights for the toilets on the outside. People would constantly have to p**p in the dark.

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    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I live in italy and the switches are (amost) always inside the toilet and more generically inside the room (apart corridors)

    Forrest McCanless
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah - why do you guys have the light switches outside the bathroom?

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the UK the switch is mounted on the ceiling and operated by pulling a cord. Touching a toggle switch (or tumbler switch) with wet hands is not a good idea.

    nottheactualphoto
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Touching the switch with wet hands is fine. They've been made of plastic (or bakelite) for nigh on a century. The switch actuators, not the hands.

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    #55

    Yellow cheese.

    anon Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's not cheese, though, is it? I'm allergic to cheese, but I can eat the American stuff.

    Khavrinen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Depends on which kind you're talking about. Yes, some of what is called "American cheese" has to be described in the fine print as "cheese food product" because it doesn't technically meet the legal definition of cheese. But it is also common in America to find versions of cheddar that have been colored yellow/orange with annatto for historic reasons having to do with the fact that cheese makers were trying to imitate the slightly yellower color milk can get in the summer, but make it last all year long. ( As someone who dislikes the bitter aftertaste I get from this supposedly "tasteless" food coloring, I'm with the English who say cheese that color isn't really cheddar. )

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    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Eh? Most cheese across the world is some shade of yellow. Some varieties are almost orange.

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But it does seem to be a peculiarly American thing to use food dyes to produce an orangey-yellow cheese (excluding Red Leicester which is a British oddity).

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    #56

    Young woman in a beanie holding a coffee cup outdoors, highlighting the topic of metal detectors at school security challenges. Drinking milkshake and pretending that it is coffee.

    rafael-a , ansila/ Freepik (not the actual photo) Report

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Heh? Why would you need to pretend you're drinking coffee?

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think they're referring to some of the "coffee" drinks that are mostly milk.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ? I drink espresso lightly sweetened. Not even close to a milkshake cup of coffee.

    Spittnimage
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Drinking hot yellow water and pretending it's tea.

    Tyranamar Seuss
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And yet Starbucks is all over Europe now. So apparently we're not the only people who like coffee milkshakes.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or, a company with enough money can just take over all the 'visible' and expensive spots, while the independent coffee shops are in side streets.

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    #57

    Donuts for breakfast.

    Empty-Comparison1904 Report

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lol, I actually had a jam doughnut for breakfast this morning. There were some left over from yesterday.

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You say this like it's a good thing ....

    #58

    Free public bathrooms.

    Captain-tie-dye Report

    Börje Strömming
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not at all. Sometimes you seem a bit too confident on how different countries handles things. Here in sweden it’s definitely pay to pee. Its to pay for the cleaning witch is to a very high standard, but still annoying that you have to pay with cash when the government is trying to get rid of cash use.

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    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sorry, but I haven't run across a bathroom in France yet that I've had to pay to enter. Even little villages have a free public bathroom and they are quite well maintained (at least in the southwest of France where I live). In a number of these smaller public bathrooms both men and women can enter, and yet we still have 1/4 the rapes that the US has. Funny thing, that.

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    everywhere is a free public toilet if you're brave enough

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And calling them bathrooms when there's no bath. Yes, lavatory is a euphemism too, but at least there's a wash basin (or several).

    Apachebathmat
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Is this the ghost of George Michael speaking?

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think tourists get the impression that all public toilets are pay-to-use because in places with very high foot traffic they often are. So major train stations and popular tourist areas will charge, but most places don't.

    Jeff Hunt
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yet people still using everywhere but the free bathrooms to go.

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unlike Europe where not tipping/paying to pee earns Skunk eye from attendants.

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    #59

    Random men on the street coming up and asking for your phone number. Strangers talking to you at the bus stop, in the shops, on the footpath. So weird!

    Sparky_McGhee Report

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sixty-nine years in States and never had stranger hit me up for phone number. Making conversations with strangers is just being friendly and polite

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Remember that those random men may be quite random.

    Kelly Scott
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's how you can meet people and actually find friends. I'm an introvert and even I talk to strangers.

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    #60

    Sweet potato and pumpkin desserts. I'm sure other places also do this but americans really seem to be obsessed with making vegetables dessert.

    horriblyefficient Report

    Roberta Surprenant
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hmm, could it be that both plants are NATIVE to this continent? Not to mention, delicious pie fixings?

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    well sweet potatoes aren't common here in italy but they're good

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They've become mush more common in your neighbouring countries than they were 20 years ago, and I suspect that's true in Italy as well.

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    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Love sweet potato anything! Watched a you tube video today from Jolly channel. They had British schoolers try American thanksgiving foods. Sweet potato was #1 favorite all around.

    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I saw that! It was cute how they enjoyed it.

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    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Agreed! Great for maims, especially roast pumpkin.

    Huddo's sister
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In Australia, pumpkins scones are very popular

    Foxglove🇮🇪
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had sweet potato baked in a fire as dessert in south Africa

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Pumpkin tastes of nothing, so presumably pumpkin pie is just a way to use up a glut. But why grow them in the first place?

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    #61

    Living rent-free in non-Americans heads, apparently.

    Phoenix_NHCA Report

    Trillian
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well the internet and social media are full of Americans thinking and acting like it's the only country in the world

    Autumn
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A free distraction from the issues on your own doorstep.

    PrettyJoyBird
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We admire all countries. I watch shows from all over world. Find everywhere fascinating; food, customs, nature, culture ECT. We dont talk badly about other countries. I dont understand the weekly almost hate of American citizens.

    Emilu
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Except for the obvious... I guess you guys would call them rednecks? We call them bogans 😆 I completely agree with you. *Some* Americans are ugly. The same could be said of any other country's people. I don't agree with a decent chunk of the US law, and I imagine the average US person would say the same of Australian law. I think lots of people forget that the average citizen has very little say in what is enshrined in law. Don't hate the person; hate the people that implemented the law, if you need to hate someone.

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    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    OP said, after Americans doing their best to force their ways into our heads.. But honestly - sorry for taking an interest in our neighbours. I guess we should ignore you like you ignore each other?

    #62

    I get 15% off Coupons for guns in my Sunday paper. I look forward to those deals every Sunday and every gun I've ever bought has been with a coupon out of the paper.

    Traditional_Trick_50 Report

    Hugo
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There are puzzle competitions in my Sunday newspaper. Several times, over the years, I've won a book token which is much more use than a gun.

    Jan Rosier
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    especially if used against flies or mosquitos

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    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I hope you have fun with your gun collection!

    #63

    Well speaking from my own experience from the “old country” I’d say:

    Not being randomly pulled over for no reason other than “regular check” every 20 minutes and having to bribe the cop to let you go.

    Being able to defend your home and not go to jail for years for it.

    Being able to find a job.

    Having an abundance of things in the supermarket.

    Being friendly and smiling to other people.

    Being in the center of the western culture.

    Not fearing a war breaking up every month and/or a neighboring nation invading you.

    Being able to go to the beach and go to a snowy mountain all in the same country.

    Many many many other things. I am so grateful to live here now. God bless America 🇺🇸.

    2doortorro Report

    Zig Zag Wanderer
    Community Member
    1 week ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "center"? Sorry, we can do all this and a great deal more, and you're not CENTRE of anything except bizarre news stories!

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Being the center is not always optimum. Think of a dart board.

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    Multa Nocte
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    OMG - this is pretty funny. 🤣 I was just waiting to see a little American flag pasted on to this silliness and I wasn't disappointed. Except in the person who wrote this.

    Ace
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wow. I can almost feel the pain and embarrassment I'm sure this brings out in most Americans who read it.

    Earonn -
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In my 54 years I never had to "defend my home". Never lived in war - and by that I also mean that the soldiers of my home country weren't sent elsewhere to fight and die for the interests of big money like oil. And "being in the center of the western culture"? W*F, do you guys believe that? That you are the shining sun? Yeah, how about you learn about the meaning of the words "humble", "hubris", or just "reality". In the saying, what comes after pride or arrogance, pray tell?

    Fat Harry (Oi / You)
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Where was this guy from that the opposite to all of these was a problem for him?

    Sofia
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    centre, colour and stuff like that seems a small inconvenient untill you start css

    Maren Villadsen
    Community Member
    1 week ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Where the f'uck did you live before moving to the US??

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