etikete

Etikete, or etiquette, refers to a set of conventional rules and norms that govern socially appropriate behavior in different contexts. It encompasses manners, courtesy, and protocol that guide interactions among individuals and groups. Etiquette aims to facilitate respectful communication, reduce friction, and show consideration for others. The concept varies by culture, setting, and era, so expectations around greetings, dress, dining, gift-giving, and speech can differ widely.

Etymology traces the term to French étiquette, originally meaning a label or card and, by extension, the formal rules associated with a position or event. In many languages, including Turkish, the word for etiquette has been borrowed and adapted, leading to local terms and inflected forms that carry the core idea of proper conduct.

Etiquette covers a broad range of domains, including dining etiquette, business or professional etiquette, social or formal etiquette, ceremonial and diplomatic protocol, and online or netiquette. Netiquette governs conduct in digital environments, addressing respectful language, privacy, harassment avoidance, and appropriate use of technology and social media.

Cross-cultural differences in etiquette are significant. What is considered polite in one culture may be inappropriate in another, affecting greetings, eye contact, personal space, punctuality, tipping, and forms of address. Etiquette evolves with social change, technology, and shifts toward inclusivity and egalitarian norms, leading to more flexible or contextual guidelines in many settings.

Education and practice of etikete occur through family traditions, schooling, professional training, and public guidelines. Critics argue that etiquette can reinforce social hierarchies or exclusion, while supporters view it as a practical tool for reducing friction and showing respect in everyday life. In Turkish, the concept is expressed as etiket, with inflected forms such as etikete reflecting its role in language.