I know someone who isn't comfortable with saying "bless you" because of the religious connotation, but doesn't want to look rude.
2007-09-18 09:54:41 · 12 answers · asked by Sophra 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
gezundheidt
2007-09-18 09:59:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 7⤊ 0⤋
I agree with the salud thing. That's what you say in Spanish if someone sneezes. I prefer to say that myself since I don't believe in god or blessings. Saying Bless you or God Bless you would just be meaningless coming from me.
2007-09-18 17:07:19 · answer #2 · answered by Xindy 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Salute', geshundheit or just "bless you" if they are an atheist and cannot accept the existence of God in society.
If they are so polite, what is wrong with saying "bless you"?
2007-09-18 18:09:42 · answer #3 · answered by joe_on_drums 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try the time-worn German expression, "Gezundheit", which means, "To your good health". However, there's really nothing "religious" about blessing someone. That just means that you extend your best wishes to them for good health, happiness -- whatever...
2007-09-18 17:48:55 · answer #4 · answered by gldjns 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
How about -- "damn!"
remember, when in doubt, leave it out!
if they're uncomfortable with saying bless you after they sneeze then i think you are excused from saying anything at all.
2007-09-18 17:07:21 · answer #5 · answered by Doodles 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Ghazuntite!
2007-09-18 17:01:22 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I always say "Gesundheit!" As I understand it, it means, "To your health!" and has nothing to do with religious beliefs and everything to do with concern for another human being:)
2007-09-18 17:46:56 · answer #7 · answered by Avie 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You really don't have to say anything if you are not comfortable responding. It's not necessary.
2007-09-18 18:21:52 · answer #8 · answered by dawnb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
"salud"
it means "health" and it's totally a cool way to get around the 'bless you' thing if that really bothers you.
EDIT: by the way, that's pronounced salood
2007-09-18 16:58:34 · answer #9 · answered by blue-in-groove 6 · 5⤊ 1⤋
Gesundheit - the German and Yiddish word for health.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gesundheit
2007-09-18 17:06:58 · answer #10 · answered by startwinkle05 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I say nothing and smile lightly.
2007-09-18 17:03:18 · answer #11 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋