Both Americans and Canadians are polite, friendly, and respectful. However, upon closer inspection, these surface similarities begin to fade away, with minor everyday rituals revealing key distinctions. For many Canadians, the things Americans consider good etiquette are often superfluous, awkward, and in some cases, a bit uncomfortable.
We asked Canadians from various backgrounds and regions to tell us about their experiences with American manners, whether through traveling, working, or living there or simply interacting with American tourists and transplants. So here are a few American etiquette rules that these Canadians (typically) don’t follow and why.
Disclaimer: These are personal opinions, generalized based on a survey we conducted, and doesn’t describe all Canadians and Americans.
Tipping for almost everything
Many Canadians we spoke with had no issue with tipping at a sit-down restaurant. But when they were asked to tip for coffee-counter service, for a quick pickup, or a tiny digital transaction, they felt put on the spot and pressured into it, especially if the service was minimal or felt “automatic.”
Smiling and chatting with strangers
Canadians described Americans as “friendly,” but the actual amount of small talk struck many as simply overwhelming. Having to strike up or return small talk in an elevator, a grocery line, or a doctor’s waiting room just doesn’t feel necessary to them. Silence, in Canada, one explained, “isn’t awkward. It’s normal.”
Using first names immediately
In the US, people tend to go straight to first-name terms, often in professional and even customer-service settings. Canadians wait to do so until it’s more natural or until someone invites them to use their first name, especially in formal and business contexts.
Saying “excuse me” instead of “sorry”
Canadians are known for saying “sorry” at the drop of a hat, even when it’s not their fault. Americans are far more likely to say “excuse me” instead. To Canadians, “excuse me” can sound blunt and a little aggressive when their norm is to constantly apologize.
Giving very enthusiastic compliments
Many Canadians we spoke with found that American compliments often come off as big and loud to them. Americans are clearly more positive and encouraging in their praise. But the Canadians we spoke to tended to feel more comfortable with quieter, more subtle praise. For them, some of the most enthusiastic compliments from Americans felt awkward and overblown.
Expecting repeated customer service check-ins
In restaurants especially, Canadians noticed Americans being asked over and over again if their meal is okay or if they need anything. To Canadians, this is pushy and interrupting their time to enjoy their meal, while Americans see it as simply being attentive and accommodating.
Keeping more personal space
Americans also like a little more physical space when they’re talking to someone, especially if they don’t know that person well. While Canadians are by no means averse to space, they’re often comfortable with standing a little closer in person, particularly in casual or friendly settings.
Saying “bless you” after every sneeze
Americans say “bless you” reflexively whenever they or someone else sneezes. In Canada, people might not say it, and if they don’t, it’s not necessarily considered rude.
Being openly assertive in public situations
Canadians mentioned that they will often let small things slide, from the wrong drink to a menu typo to a simple mistake. It seems that Americans are less hesitant to point something out when it’s off, and Canadians can perceive that as more confrontational than they’re used to.
Being relaxed about punctuality
The punctuality issue came up several times. For many Canadians, being on time, especially to social situations, is really important. To see someone arrive later with minimal apology can make Canadians very uncomfortable, especially when it’s for work or a planned event.
Talking openly about money
Most Canadians reported that in the U.S., there is a much more open attitude to discussing money and finances. Conversations about salaries, prices, and financial success were often described as more common in the U.S. than in Canada, where money is a very private subject.