when they laugh?
2006-12-21 09:09:31 · 21 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Because it is polite :)
love you xx
2006-12-21 09:17:05 · answer #1 · answered by tahanni 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Hi j0nny
It may have its roots in the medieval christian belief that the devil could enter you thru an open mouth. This is the original reason for covering the mouth when yawning. Or it could be shyness, the fact that a parent did it or poor oral hygiene.
2006-12-21 18:04:08 · answer #2 · answered by wizard prang 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Japanese Kanji for laughing is a hand covering a mouth. So for them it is an ancient cultural thing.It may be a defense mechanism in that it may be a recogniton that we may be laughing inappropiatelyand we wish to shield this from our peers.
2006-12-21 17:28:39 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
At one time it was considered proper manners, especially for a female, to cover their mouths when laughing. That was, I think in Victorian society. These days it is simply a hold over.
Charles--That Cheeky Lad
2006-12-21 17:13:49 · answer #4 · answered by Charles-CeeJay_UK_ USA/CheekyLad 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I usually do it if we're at the dinner table and chatting and laughing as I do not know if I have something in my teeth, especially since i just got finished eating. Some people are embarrassed by their teeth.
2006-12-21 17:12:36 · answer #5 · answered by gypsy g 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In Liverpool it's because of the Mersey Tunnel. As in 'Shut yer mouth luv, thairs a bus cumin.'
2006-12-21 18:49:24 · answer #6 · answered by cymry3jones 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I used to do this when I had discoloured fillings in my front teeth, and the teeth were also a horrible colour. I didnt want people to see them Now, I dont do so becuase I've now got false ones.
2006-12-21 17:13:24 · answer #7 · answered by Star 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I once knew someone who covered their hand with their mouth when they waved. The reason apparently was bitten fingernails. Conclude from this what you will.
2006-12-21 17:16:24 · answer #8 · answered by Dava 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know if its polite but I find it quite an endearing gesture, I suppose it could be to cover up bad breath but I dont think thats what it is.
2006-12-21 17:21:20 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
In Japanese culture it is considered rude for girls and women not to cover their teeth when they laugh.
2006-12-21 17:17:54 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
To pretend to do not let the words escape!
Or to do not show their tonsils when they laugh, it's not a good sight.
2006-12-21 19:30:30 · answer #11 · answered by Nicolette 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋