You wrote, "....we New Yorkers aren't kno...

2012-01-15T21:03:48.199-06:00

You wrote, "....we New Yorkers aren't known for being overly polite." When I first read that I went, "Hmmm." and chuckled, because I don't know any New Yorkers, personally. But, from what I've heard and read about them, the average New Yorker would generally be more rude than polite to anyone, any day. So, I would suggest your statement about your fellow New Yorkers might be at least a tad bit generous.

By the way, I'm with you. The "No problem" response for any reason grates on me. I hate it. It's so thoughtless.

He speaks! Welcome back Zach.

2012-01-15T15:08:05.861-06:00

He speaks! Welcome back Zach.

Great discussion. I tend to tilt the other way an...

2012-01-15T07:17:50.738-06:00

Great discussion. I tend to tilt the other way and get slightly annoyed when someone says "you're welcome." I also personally prefer to use "no problem." Here's why.

I see "thank you" as my public statement that the other person has done something kind for me and that I am somewhat in his debt.

That being said, "you're welcome" seems to function as his acknowledgement of that debt and often strikes me as having condescending overtones. Think of those who preemptively say "you're WELCOME" in an attempt to elicit the thanks they believe they are due. People never use "no problem" in that way.

I see "no problem" as a response that humbly attempts to assure me that, despite my subservient offering of thanks, I am not in the other person's debt.

So God would properly say "you're welcome" in response to our thanksgiving, whereas we should say "no problem" if God were to ever thank one of us for something. Of course, there are other options, and I am particularly fond of "my pleasure."

So, in the end, you have no one to blame but yourself for a response that speaks to your owing him a debt. :) You have put yourself in that position by saying "thank you." Perhaps you would be better off ending your transaction by saying, "Pleasure doing business with you," or "Good Evening." Just a thought from your Southern buddy!

And, yes, a regular post on NY Etiquette would be a wonderful addition to Reep!

Comments on Reepicheep: NY lesson in Etiquette

You wrote, "....we New Yorkers aren't kno...

He speaks! Welcome back Zach.

Great discussion. I tend to tilt the other way an...