【正文】 2. Differences Two expressions of apology “Excuse me” and “I am sorry” (both of which can be translated into Chinese “ 對不起 ” n eed to distinguish here. Chinese “ 對不起 ”is often used to express apology and its equivalent in English is “sorry” or “excuse me”.” “Excuse me” is used to inquire the information from a stranger, ask for an interruption of other’s speech or feel apologetic for leaving a meeting or a banquet or for pronounce words wrongly in speech or reading, etc. Under these conditions, there is not an equivalent expression in Chinese. Moreover, “sorry” and “excuse me” have a clear division of labor in English. If tramping on other’s foot accidentally colliding with others, it can only say “sorry” or “I’m sorry”, but not “excuse me”. But Chinese “ 對不起 ”can be used for both of these English expressions. In Chinese, “ 謝謝 ”is seldom heard between relatives and friends, and even between parents and children, husband and wife. On the contrary, English words “thank you” may be heard many times a day. In a view of foreigners, the Chinese seem impolite in this aspect. For example, when other people passed him a letter, the Chinese takes it for granted, and expresses no thanks for it, the English would think it is impolite. Besides, there are differences between “ 謝謝 ” and “thank you” in the range and occasion of use. When invited to take part in a party, the Chinese seems not so ready to accept it first. This kind of attitude makes the English amazed. For example, when a scholar left Guangzhou for England was invited by his tutor to take part in a informal dinner, he said continuously, “thank you” and added “all right, I will try to e”. This made his tutor uneasy and asked him simply “yes or no?” This embarrassment is caused by the different understandings of how to use polite language. There is a similar condition in accepting the other’s offer. When the English ask “will you have a cup of tea”, we can’t only answer in our Chinese way “Thank you” to express agreement. The right answer should be “yes, please” to express acceptance and “no, thank you” to express refusal. E. Politeness Expression on Wish and Presents Politeness expression on wish and press also can be expressed on similarities and differences. 1. Similarities In Chinese, there are a large amount of expressions on wish to express luckiness and happiness. for example, when parting with friends ,the Chinese expressions “ 鵬程萬里 ” “ 一帆風順 ”” 萬事如意 ”,etc. are usual. In English, there are equivalent expressions, such as a pleasant / successful / happy /wonderful journey， a good / fine expectation. In China, Spring Festival is a important and great day for all the family members to be together, therefore, many expressions on wish e into being, such as 恭賀新禧、新春快樂、福壽安康、添福增壽、年年有余、恭禧發(fā)財、步步高升、財源亨通、金玉滿堂， etc. Christmas to the English people is as important as Spring Festival to our Chinese, the wishes are “Merry Christmas”, “God bless you”, “Good lu ck”, “I wish you successful in the following（ next） year”,etc. About the gifts, both Chinese and English prefer to select items as personal presents that are thoughtfully chosen but not necessarily expensive. 2. Differences In Englishspoken countries, a gracious written note is always appropriate and acceptable. You may bring a small gift of chocolate, wine or flowers if invited to one of your friend’s home. Different from Chinese custom, gifts are opened in front of the giver. The gift is admired, and appreciation is expressed verbally. The oral expression of thanks is followed by a written note of appreciation unless the gift is small and used as an advertisement. In contrast, China places high value on the practice of Guanxi(關系 ) which is rooted in Confucian values. Relations are built and sustained through the exchange of favors and gifts in attaining goals that are beneficial for both parties. Chinese usually will not unwrap a gift in the presence of the giver. It is appropriate to politely show reluctance when accepting a gift. The recipient may refuse a gift at the first, second or third offering so as not to appear overly greedy. Reciprocation is monplace in gift giving. The receiver is supposed to reciprocate with almost equal value. So never give a gift that would make it impossible for the, Chinese to reciprocatethis would cause a loss of face and place them in a very difficult position. IV. Suggestions for Improving Communication Skills between Chinese and English In order to make the munication between Chinese and English successful, we should find several effective ways. A. Thinking Globally and Culturally Global village not only brings about frustration but also challenge. To meet these challenges people in China and English countries have to learn each other’s cultures. They need to know how to get along with each other and how to solve problems that inevitably arise. Therefore, it is necessary to team how to municate across cultures. That requires us to learn to think, feel and behave in ways, and develop a broader world view, a m