Every nation across the globe possesses a unique culture.The cultural difference between the nations helps to identify them. The beauty of the culture lies in the practices that the nation follows. France and Portugal are beautiful countries. France’s fame stems from its wine and fashion, while Portugal boasts the distinction of having the oldest wine-growing regions.The best way to get insight into any country’s culture is to know its languages.People worldwide speak thousands of languages, which is why they seek assistance from professional translation services to understand the cultural differences.
Cultural Differences
Let’s explore the differences between these two beautiful countries, France and Portugal
Language
One of the foremost differences between France and Portugal is their language. French is the official language of France. Over 70 million people around the world speak the French language. Portugal’s official language is Portuguese. Around 250 million people use this language globally. French and Portuguese are widely spoken in the business world. Therefore for operating a global business, you must take assistance from translation services.
Punctuality
In France, people associate punctuality with respect both in personal and professional life. In some cities in France, people try to reach a little early. They follow the saying that being on time is already being late. They take punctuality more seriously in case of job interviews, medical appointments, and office meetings. To avoid any embarrassing position in France, you must take assistance from French translation services as you know punctuality matters in French culture.
Compared to French people, the Portuguese are laid-back and flexible. If you have fixed an appointment at 1:00 pm then people will come at 1:15 or 1:30. Furthermore, you can cancel appointments at the last moment. Portuguese people keep themselves relaxed and they don’t give attention to tight schedules. To immerse in the laid-back culture of Portuguese, Portuguese translation services are of great help.
Addressing People
In both countries, France and Portugal, people address each other formally. They particularly do this in a professional environment. This is because they want to give respect to the people high in the hierarchy. They address informally if they have to address friends and families.
In Portugal, people call each other by their first names. Therefore, they make friends easily. The people of Portugal are more expressive and less formal. Therefore you will find people in big cities more friendly and talkative. In contrast to Portugal, France is known for its formal communication style, characterized by maintaining a certain distance between colleagues and members of society.Therefore to avoid any unfavorable situation in France, you must take assistance from professional french translation services.
Cuisine
One of the most noticeable differences between France and Portugal is their cuisine. French cuisine is famous all over the world for its rich flavors and intricate preparations. From the buttery croissants to the delicious escargots, French food is a feast for the senses.
Portugal, on the other hand, is known for its seafood dishes. These dishes include grilled sardines and cod. Portuguese cuisine is also characterized by the use of olive oil and fresh herbs. It gives its dishes a unique and delicious taste. If you want to taste the healthy cuisine of Portugal then a professional Portuguese translation can be of great help.
Different Restaurant Culture of France and Portugal
Do you know that if you visit a restaurant in Portugal then waiters will serve you water, bread, and snacks even if you don’t order anything? Still, if you eat these things then you will be charged.
Contrary to Portugal, in France, waiters will bring you things like bread, appetizers, and water. Moreover, if you order extra bread with your meal even then you are not charged. French laws say that all restaurants must provide fresh drinking water free of charge.
Traditions and Customs
France and Portugal also have different traditions and customs. In France, the most important holiday is Bastille Day, which commemorates the start of the French Revolution. The French also celebrate Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Easter, just like many other countries around the world.
In Portugal, Christmas takes the top spot as the most important holiday, followed by Easter and the Portuguese national day on June 10th. Portugal also celebrates the popular Santo António festival, a celebration of the patron saint of Lisbon.
Art and Architecture
Both France and Portugal share renown for their art and architecture, but they exhibit different styles. French art features impressionism, surrealism, and expressionism, with famous artists such as Monet, Degas, and Matisse. In contrast, Portugal’s art draws heavy influence from its rich history and culture.
Beautiful art from the Baroque and Renaissance periods is still visible in the country’s architecture.In terms of architecture, France is famous for its Gothic and Renaissance buildings, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Palace of Versailles. Portugal, on the other hand, is known for its Manueline style, characterized by intricate carvings and motifs, as seen in the famous Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
Wrapping Up
People are very sensitive about their culture. Therefore with the help of a translation service, one can respect other cultures. Moreover, if you need to move to a foreign country for higher education or a job, you can easily immerse yourself in the new culture. If you keep these cultural differences in view while going to France or Portugal then you can save yourself from many awkward situations.