How much eye contact to make
Neutral Neutral
What it really means
Moderate eye contact shows you're engaged and honest, but constant, intense staring can feel uncomfortable. The British norm is to make eye contact when speaking and listening, then look away naturally now and then. On public transport, avoid prolonged eye contact with strangers.
Chinese explanation
适度的眼神交流显得你专注又真诚，但一直紧盯着看会让人不自在。英国的习惯是说话和倾听时有眼神接触，然后不时自然地移开视线。在公共交通上，避免与陌生人长时间对视。
Example conversation
A: Should I look people in the eye when I talk?
B: Yes, but naturally — glancing away sometimes is normal, not rude.
A：说话时该看着对方的眼睛吗？
B：要，但自然一点——偶尔移开视线很正常，不算失礼。
What you could say back
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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake