Etiquette and Exchanging Pleasantries

“… most people, are basically shy and need a crutch to help them over their reluctance to tall…” – Elizabeth Post (above) was asked about exchanging common pleasantries.

From, “Ask Them Yourself”

A Question for Elizabeth L. Post, author of “The New Emily Posts Etiquette” – Isn't it time we stopped saying, “How do you do?” When we are introduced? It means nothing ; no reply is expected. What would be a good substitute? – Mrs. Alfred C. Herz, New London, N.H.

Answer – Not all, but most people, are basically shy and need a crutch to help them over their reluctance to talk to strangers. We use many phrases as crutches; “How are you?” “Glad to meet you,” etc... “How do you do?” really means, “How are you doing?” You're right. No answer is required. But these automatic responses make it easier to break the ice than thinking up apt remarks for each new situation. Without, “How do you do?” many conversations would never get off the ground at all. – Hanford Sentinel, 1976

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia