Latest news with #manners
Washington Post
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Washington Post
Readers critique The Post: Cheaters don't deserve a right to privacy
Every week, The Post runs a collection of letters of readers' grievances — pointing out grammatical mistakes, missing coverage and inconsistencies. These letters tell us what we did wrong and, occasionally, offer praise. Here, we present this week's Free for All letters. In her July 28 op-ed, 'The Coldplay kiss-cam frenzy shows we need a culture shift,' Kate Wagner suggested it is inappropriate or bad manners to circulate a video of two senior executives 'cheating' on one of the most meaningful vows two people can share. In doing so, she trivialized the highest expression of loyalty — not to a 'culture' but to each other — and the painful repercussions from its breach. Calling out conduct unacceptable to the human condition is a time-tested means of deterring it and confirming an immovable baseline. There is no preventive measure more potent than the light of day. The wider the circulation, the more effective the deterrence. Jack Fornaciari, Bethesda After reading the online headline of Mitch Daniels's July 30 essay, 'To who, or what, may be reading these words … ,' a gaggle of online commenters blew the grammar whistle — but also blew the call. They snidely demanded the word 'whom,' though the object of the preposition 'to' is the entire phrase 'who, or what, may be reading.' I'm usually snide myself about grammar-referee letters and comments, and this time I, too, reached for a whistle. Better yet, the word 'whom' should be memory-holed, replaced by 'who.' (There: another example of a preposition leading to 'who,' not 'whom.') Steven T. Corneliussen, Poquoson, Virginia Those who grew up with ''Where's Waldo?' must love The Post's new game, 'Where's Metro?' In this game, The Post has reduced the number of individually printed sections, so the Metro section's location is offered as an oft-changing challenge. To win, the reader must memorize the position of each section of the paper on each day of the week, with Metro being the most difficult to find. Vira Sisolak, Washington Regarding the July 24 front-page article 'Evidence of classified details in Signal chat,' among many others: I have a suggestion for reducing printing costs: Instead of so-and-so 'spoke on the condition of anonymity to talk freely,' insert 'blah blah blah.' Similar wording appears so many times each day that this simple change should save about 5 percent of newspaper space. Mary Elizabeth Cox, McLean The July 25 front-page article 'Wrestler saw drama in, out of ring' described Terry Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, as having a 'Fu Manchu mustache.' I was shocked to run across this phrase in The Post. Fu Manchu was a fictional Chinese character often played by White actors. He reflected multiple anti-Asian tropes and stereotypes. The character has long been criticized as perpetuating racist and xenophobic attitudes toward East Asians. I can think of much better ways to describe the late wrestling superstar's mustache: drooping, mouth-framing, distinctive, horseshoe-shaped. Barbra A. Kavanaugh, Delray Beach, Florida Two opinion pieces in the July 24 edition of The Post should be read in pari materia. Catherine Rampell's '11 tips for becoming a columnist' left out the most important advice for all writers, from Mark Twain: 'Write what you know.' (Maybe Rampell should expand her list to an even dozen.) Megan McArdle's 'The 'Late Show' cancellation is terrible, but not because of politics' showed the importance of my suggested Tip No. 12. McArdle wrote 10 paragraphs about 'The Late Show' after candidly admitting that 'I never watched the show.' Another famous quote often attributed to Twain holds that 'there is no sense in forming an opinion when there is no evidence to form it on.' Readers of the Opinion section deserve more than 'truthiness,' a term coined by Stephen Colbert during his previous show, 'The Colbert Report,' to indicate something that merely feels true. Michael Nardolilli, Arlington Journalism is easy when you make things up, even if they are identified as such. See Barry Svrluga's conjuring of an imagined conversation in his July 24 Sports column, 'McLaurin's holdout is a concern but not a crisis — for now, at least.' There were real quotes mixed in with 'theoretical arguments' between Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin and Coach Dan Quinn. This wasn't a Mike Royko column, talking through characters. These were somewhat reasonable fake comments ostensibly made by real people. Especially with today's aggregators and AI summaries, this was bad form. Jeff Ward, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania The photo accompanying the July 16 news article 'Hegseth upbraided Pentagon DOGE agent in tense clash' showed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with an American flag pocket handkerchief. The secretary needs to be reminded that the 'Respect for flag' section of the U.S. Code states that the flag 'should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs.' William Ulman, Fairfax I was very happy to see the July 28 news article 'Trump's math is precise, yet often inaccurate.' It is important to guard against of the misuse of math and statistics. Everyone should be aware that 72.6 percent of the time a statistic is quoted, it is a number completely invented by the writer. Joel M. Cohen, College Park The writer is professor emeritus of mathematics at the University of Maryland and a fellow of the American Mathematical Society. I tried to comment on Christopher S. Chivvis and Sam Winter-Levy's July 23 op-ed, 'The wrong place to build AI,' but my submission was rejected. It contained the word 'damned.' So I made one change: 'Damned' became 'darned.' That was accepted. Since when did 'damned' become a bad word? Frank Friedman, Delanco, New Jersey ''It's Mangialardo's on Penn. Everyone else is playing for second,' declares one hoagie purist.' So declares the July 18 Weekend article 'A hands-on guide to bliss between bread,' which advises hoagie purists to 'fold in fresh onions, extra heavy mayo.' Take it from this Philadelphia gal: No hoagie purist will tolerate mayo. It's oil on the roll or nothing! In South Philly, a pinch of oregano will be added, and the tomatoes and onions must be sliced razor-thin, not steak-thick, which I now see in all eateries staffed by younger generations. Carol Franco, West Chester, Pennsylvania I eagerly read through Marc Fisher's July 23 op-ed, 'Trump's distraction slight of hand,' for the wordplay the headline implied. I was more than sleightly disappointed not to find it. Donald R. Juran, Rockville If I were still teaching, I could lift a question about language clarity from the July 22 news article 'Paxton divorce, alleged adultery jolt Texas Senate race,' about Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R). The caption under the photograph of his wife read: 'In her divorce filing, state Sen. Angela Paxton (R) accuses her husband of 38 years of adultery.' Surely Sen. Paxton hasn't just now discovered that her husband has been committing adultery for the whole 38 years of their marriage? Though it's nice for anyone teaching English to have fresh examples of poor writing, it's not acceptable for The Post. Theresa Early, Colorado Springs In the lead letter on July 23, Nicholas Longley pleaded for President Donald Trump to help veterans such as himself. He never mentioned immigrants. Yet the headline was 'I voted for Donald Trump. His immigration policies must change.' Where in the world did that come from? Steven Alan Honley, Washington As dedicated crossword enthusiasts, my 76-year-old mother and I cherished the Play With Friends feature on The Post's app. It was our daily mother-daughter tradition, a vital source of shared joy and connection. The recent interface update eliminated this function, preventing us from solving puzzles together. Please, I urge The Post to reinstate Play With Friends. This isn't just about a feature; it's about a small yet profound happiness so many of us genuinely need. Rachael Lammers, Melbourne Beach, Florida The Post should not have been so naive as to publish the July 27 news article 'Fossilized penis worm suggests Grand Canyon was an evolutionary hotbed' without an explanation as to why the animal mentioned in the headline has that name. Every reading man will have pored through the article looking for the reason and found none. Peter Hutchinson, Gaithersburg The July 15 front-page article 'A rural clinic's closure is a test for Trump's cuts' reported, 'Republicans say that changes such as work requirements will reduce fraud and ensure that Medicaid is available for those it was originally intended to serve, including pregnant women and the disabled.' Despite what Republicans say, women are not the only people who can and do become pregnant. The Post should make sure not to choose pandering over medical accuracy. Bob Findlay, Seattle On a recent trip to The Hague, I saw a sign in a shop window reading: 'Old sailors used to have a pig and a hen inked on their feet, a tattoo that was believed to keep bad luck at bay. In case of shipwreck, the pigs and hens aboard were usually the sole survivors: the wind and the tide would safely float them back home in their wooden crates.' I don't know how historically accurate that is, but it was a delightful reminder of the 1935 sculpture showcased in Sebastian Smee's March 2 Great Works, In Focus column, 'You can learn a lot from 'Battleship Kate,' a showcase for an American tattoo master.' There on Kate's feet: a pig and a hen. Robin Killoran, Florence
Yahoo
24-07-2025
- General
- Yahoo
13 Behaviors That Reveal Someone Is Classless
Navigating social spaces can be tricky, especially when you're trying to maintain a sense of class and dignity. Sometimes, it's the subtle behaviors that give away a lack of sophistication. Whether it's a seemingly small gesture or a glaring lack of tact, the signs can be quite telling. Here are 13 behaviors that reveal someone might be a little rough around the edges. As you read, consider how these behaviors manifest and if you've encountered them in your own social circles. 1. They Have Bad Table Manners Your dining habits can reveal a lot about your upbringing and social awareness. Poor table manners, like eating noisily or using utensils incorrectly, can be off-putting and suggest a lack of refinement. These habits can distract from the meal and make others feel uneasy about sharing a dining experience with you. Etiquette expert Emily Post's Institute highlights that good manners are about consideration for others and making dining experiences pleasant for everyone involved. Maintaining proper table manners shows respect for your dining companions and the environment. It's not just about following rigid rules, but about ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for everyone at the table. Small gestures, like using a napkin properly or waiting for everyone to be served before starting, go a long way. Paying attention to these details can elevate your dining experience and reflect positively on your character. Practicing good table manners is a simple yet effective way to display class. It's about making the dining experience enjoyable for both you and others. 2. They Disregard Dress Codes Dress codes, whether stated or implied, play an important role in social settings. Disregarding these guidelines can make you stand out in all the wrong ways, suggesting a lack of awareness or respect for the occasion. The way you present yourself speaks volumes about how seriously you take the event and the people attending it. People who value class understand the importance of dressing appropriately and adhering to the expected norms. It's about showing respect for the host and the effort put into organizing the event. Ignoring dress codes can create a disconnect between you and the other attendees, making it difficult to blend in or engage comfortably. Dressing appropriately doesn't mean sacrificing personal style; it's about finding a balance that respects the occasion and reflects your personality. Take the time to understand the context and adjust your attire accordingly. Doing so demonstrates a sense of social awareness and respect for those around you. The right outfit can project confidence and respect, hallmarks of a classy demeanor. 3. They Brag Non-Stop While it's natural to want to share your achievements, excessive bragging can come off as self-centered and insecure. People who constantly boast about their successes often leave others feeling alienated or diminished. This behavior can signal a need for validation or an overinflated sense of self-importance. Instead, people who handle themselves with class know how to share accomplishments modestly and gracefully. They understand that true confidence doesn't need constant affirmation. Bragging can also disrupt conversations, shifting the focus solely onto the bragger rather than fostering a balanced dialogue. To maintain a sense of class, focus on humility and let your achievements speak for themselves. Acknowledge the contributions of others and celebrate their successes alongside your own. This approach builds stronger relationships and leaves a positive impression. Remember, a little humility goes a long way in demonstrating sophistication. 4. They Use Foul Language Language is a powerful tool, and the words you choose can greatly impact how others perceive you. Frequent use of foul language can be jarring and suggest a lack of self-control or respect for the audience. While everyone lets a swear word slip occasionally, excessive profanity can overshadow your message and alienate those around you. People who conduct themselves with elegance understand the importance of articulate communication. They choose their words carefully, knowing the impression they leave behind. Moreover, using foul language can close doors to meaningful conversations and connections. It can make others hesitant to engage with you, fearing discomfort or offense. Instead, practice expanding your vocabulary and expressing your thoughts more creatively. This not only enriches your conversations but also reflects a higher level of intellect and respect for your audience. Mindful language choices are a hallmark of someone who values class. 5. They Don't Listen, They Talk When you're having a conversation, there's nothing more frustrating than being cut off mid-sentence. People who frequently interrupt others often reveal a lack of patience or respect for the person speaking. They appear more interested in asserting their own opinions than engaging in a genuine exchange. According to a study by Dr. Michael Kraus from Yale University, interruptions can also signify dominance and a power play in social interactions. Being mindful of your conversational habits can make a big difference in how you're perceived. It's not just about being polite; it's about showing that you value the other person's voice. When you interrupt, it can make people feel disregarded and unimportant. Instead, focus on listening actively and waiting for the right moment to contribute your thoughts. This demonstrates maturity and respect, qualities that are foundational to maintaining a sense of class. Remember, effective communication is a two-way street. 6. They Complain About Everything Everyone has bad days, but constantly airing grievances can wear thin on those around you. Chronic complainers often come across as negative and ungrateful, casting a shadow over even the most upbeat interactions. This behavior can suggest a lack of resilience and an inability to find the silver lining in situations. It's essential to strike a balance between expressing genuine concerns and indulging in a never-ending gripe session. Try to focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems to exude a more positive and classy demeanor. Moreover, constant complaining can be contagious, spreading negativity like wildfire. It can pull the energy of a group down, making social gatherings less enjoyable for everyone involved. Instead, practice gratitude and shift your focus to positive aspects, no matter how small. This change in perspective not only improves your outlook but also positively influences those around you. A positive attitude is a mark of someone who handles themselves with grace. 7. They Overshare Personal Details In an age where sharing is often encouraged, knowing where to draw the line is vital. People who overshare can make others feel uncomfortable, as they divulge personal details better left private. This tendency can signal a lack of social awareness and boundaries, leaving a lasting impression for all the wrong reasons. According to psychologist Dr. Susan Krauss Whitbourne, oversharing can stem from a need for validation or a lack of self-awareness. Being discerning about what to share and with whom is crucial in maintaining a sense of class. It's not just about the content but the context and the timing. Oversharing in the wrong setting can make others awkward and hesitant to continue the conversation. It's essential to gauge your audience and the situation before diving into intimate details. Save deeper conversations for trusted friends or private settings, where people are more receptive. Discretion is a key component of sophistication and respect. 8. They're Chronically Late Time is a precious commodity, and chronic lateness can disrupt plans and demonstrate a lack of consideration for others. When you're always late, it sends a message that you prioritize your time over everyone else's. This behavior is not only frustrating but also disrespectful to those who have made an effort to be punctual. People who value class are mindful of their schedules and strive to be on time. It's about showing respect and appreciation for the people you're meeting. Being late occasionally is understandable, but habitual tardiness suggests poor time management. It can strain relationships and paint you as unreliable. To combat this, plan ahead and account for potential delays in your schedule. Being punctual shows that you value and respect the time of others, a key element of maintaining class. Remember, timeliness is a form of politeness that leaves a positive impression. 9. They Miss Social Cues Navigating social interactions requires a keen sense of awareness and the ability to read social cues. Ignoring these signals can lead to awkward encounters and suggest a lack of social finesse. When people miss cues, it can indicate a lack of self-awareness or an inability to empathize with others. Research by Dr. Simon Baron-Cohen, a professor at the University of Cambridge, indicates that understanding social cues is linked to empathy and emotional intelligence. Being attuned to the unspoken elements of conversation can enhance your interactions and project class. Recognizing social cues involves paying attention to body language, tone, and context. It's about knowing when to speak up and when to listen, maintaining a balanced and respectful dialogue. Ignoring these cues can lead to misunderstandings and discomfort for both you and others. By honing your ability to read these signals, you demonstrate a higher level of social intelligence. This skill allows you to navigate conversations gracefully and leave a positive impression. 10. They Talk Too Loudly In Public Volume control is essential, especially in public spaces where other people are present. Speaking loudly can be disruptive and draw unwanted attention, making everyone around you uncomfortable. It can come off as inconsiderate and lacking in self-awareness, traits that are far from classy. People who handle themselves with dignity understand the importance of adjusting their volume to suit the environment. It's about respecting shared spaces and those who occupy them. Moreover, speaking loudly can make it difficult for others to focus on their own activities, leading to frustration and annoyance, whether you're on a phone call or chatting with a friend. Maintaining a moderate volume shows consideration for others. It's about blending into the environment rather than overtaking it. Remember, being noticed for your poise and respect is far more admirable than being remembered for being loud. A lower volume often indicates a higher level of sophistication. 11. They Never Say Thank You Gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to show appreciation and respect. Failing to thank others for their efforts or kindness can suggest entitlement or a lack of awareness. Saying "thank you" acknowledges the value of someone's actions and fosters goodwill in relationships. People who embody class make gratitude a habit, understanding its importance in every interaction. It's a small gesture that can leave a lasting positive impression. Thanking others is not just about manners but about recognizing their contributions to your life. Whether through a verbal acknowledgment, a written note, or a simple text, expressing gratitude shows you don't take others' efforts for granted. This practice strengthens relationships and encourages a culture of kindness and appreciation. By making gratitude a regular part of your interactions, you demonstrate thoughtfulness and respect. These qualities are fundamental to maintaining a sense of class. 12. They Speak Ill Of Others Gossip and speaking ill of others can be detrimental, both to those involved and to your own reputation. This behavior suggests a lack of integrity and respect for the privacy and dignity of others. Engaging in negative talk can foster an environment of mistrust and hostility, turning people away. People who value class avoid these conversations, focusing instead on uplifting and positive interactions. They understand that building others up, rather than tearing them down, is a mark of character. Moreover, speaking ill of others often reflects poorly on the one doing the talking. It can create a negative perception and make others wary of confiding in you, fearing they'll become the next topic of conversation. To maintain a sense of class, steer clear of gossip and focus on constructive dialogues. By doing so, you foster an atmosphere of trust and respect, elements that enhance any relationship. Emphasizing positivity and integrity sets a strong foundation for classy conduct. 13. They Dismiss Others' Opinions In any discussion, respecting differing viewpoints is crucial. Being dismissive of others' opinions suggests arrogance and an unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue. This behavior can hinder constructive conversations and create a divide between you and those around you. People who embody class value diverse perspectives and approach discussions with an open mind. They listen actively and engage thoughtfully, even when disagreeing. Being dismissive not only shuts down conversation but can also alienate those who wish to share their views. Instead of disregarding differing opinions, invite discussion and seek to understand the reasoning behind them. This openness to diverse perspectives enriches conversations and demonstrates respect for others' experiences and insights. Keeping an open mind and valuing dialogue are key components of classy behavior. By embracing this approach, you foster a culture of respect and inclusivity. Solve the daily Crossword
Washington Post
21-07-2025
- General
- Washington Post
Miss Manners: Let woman you're escorting up a staircase first?
Dear Miss Manners: Too often for my comfort, I find myself at the bottom of a staircase, escorting a woman upstairs. My instinct is to let the woman go first, but the unfortunate result is that when I follow her up the stairs, my eyes are at the level of her bottom.
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Matthew McConaughey Goes Viral After His Wimbledon Gesture To The Prince And Princess Of Wales
is earning royal praise, quite literally, after a sweet and respectful gesture toward the Prince and Princess of Wales at this year's Wimbledon final went viral. The "Dallas Buyers Club" star was spotted in the star-studded Royal Box on Sunday as he watched Jannik Sinner defeat Carlos Alcaraz for the championship title. But it wasn't just the match that caught the internet's attention. It was Matthew McConaughey's old-school manners that stole the show. Matthew McConaughey standing to applaud the Prince & Princess of Wales. What a lovely southern gentleman. — Sarah Delore (@sarah_delore) July 13, 2025 In now-viral footage shared on X (formerly Twitter), the "How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days" star was seen rising from his seat in the royal box as and arrived. Though not obligated by royal protocol, as Americans aren't required to bow or curtsy, Matthew McConaughey chose to stand in a show of respect, quietly honoring their presence. The internet was quick to take notice. "Matthew McConaughey standing to applaud the Prince & Princess of Wales. What a lovely southern gentleman," one user wrote. Others chimed in with praise like, "Real class," 'He's a gentleman,' and 'Matthew was raised right. Always something I have always admired.' The "We Are Marshall" actor attended the match alongside his wife, , and was seen greeting fellow VIPs, including tennis legend Andre Agassi, with his signature warmth and ease. A special gift from the new #Wimbledon Champion to Their Royal Highnesses Prince George and Princess Charlotte 😁 — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 13, 2025 The final day of Wimbledon wasn't just star-studded, it was royally charming. In a delightful surprise, Prince George and Princess Charlotte joined their parents, Prince William and Kate Middleton, at Centre Court to watch the men's singles final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. The family of four made quite the coordinated entrance, all donning shades of blue for the special occasion. Prince George, who turns 12 later this month, matched his father in a dapper navy suit and tie, while Princess Charlotte looked picture-perfect in a soft blue summer dress and matching hair bow that complemented her mom's chic ensemble. Princess Kate, who also attended the women's final the day before, stunned in her own summery look as she returned for the tournament's grand finale. Prince George and Princess Charlotte mirroring each other and trying to process that Carlos didn't win is iconic ❤️ Prince William talking to Tennis Royalty Chris Evert 🎾 — The British Prince (@freedom_007__) July 13, 2025 Although the Royal Box is usually reserved for adult guests due to its limited 74-seat capacity, special exceptions are made for royal children, and Prince George and Princess Charlotte are no strangers to Wimbledon. Both have attended before, while their younger brother, Prince Louis, 7, has yet to make his debut. Also spotted in the crowd was King Felipe of Spain, in attendance to cheer on his countryman, Carlos Alcaraz Despite announcing her cancer was in remission earlier this year, Kate Middleton continues to gracefully navigate a delicate balance between public royal duties and private healing. In a heartfelt moment during her July 2 visit to Colchester Hospital, the Princess of Wales opened up about the emotional aftermath of cancer treatment, a phase she says has been more challenging than most realize. "You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment. Treatment's done, then it's like, 'I can crack on, get back to normal,'' she shared while speaking with staff and patients. 'But actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult." The 42-year-old royal, who revealed her diagnosis in March and shared news of her remission in June, has become a quiet source of strength and inspiration as she slowly returns to the spotlight. "You have to find your new normal and that takes time... and it's a rollercoaster, it's not smooth like you expect it to be,' she continued. 'But the reality is you go through hard times." Wimbledon has always been a hotspot for A-listers, and this year has been no different. Over the course of the tournament, celebrities like , , and have all made headlines with their appearances in the stands. But it was Matthew McConaughey's southern charm that truly stood out during the final. Amid a sea of glamorous outfits and Hollywood smiles, McConaughey reminded fans that real class is timeless.
Washington Post
08-07-2025
- General
- Washington Post
Miss Manners: ‘Ladies first' doesn't apply everywhere
Dear Miss Manners: I am a gentleman who strives to live a mannerly life. In that regard, when riding public transportation, I offer my seat to ladies who are standing. I also wait for ladies to leave an elevator before me. Now that I am well beyond retirement age, does that change any expectations and norms? When, if ever, do I keep my seat and allow younger men the privilege of offering their seat to the fairer sex?
