The Australian Dictionary of Invisible Culture for Teachers
talking to strangers
norm: when it is like this, it is good to do some things (see more)
Many people in Australia think like this:
When I am in one place with someone for some time, it is good if I say something to this person (e.g. hello, something about the weather).
Often, it is good if at the same time, I can smile.
It is good if I say some things, not many things. It can be bad if I say many things.
Note
It is possible to say something 'not with words' for example, just by smiling at the person. The last line cautions against starting full conversations with strangers."Two people are waiting at the bus stop for 10 minutes. The bus is late. It can be good if one person says something like 'I wish the busses were on time' or 'At least it's not so cold today' to the other person."
"Two people are waiting at the bar for some drinks. It can be good if one person smiles, or says something like 'I recommend the espresso martini. It's really good here.' (It can be not good in some situations)"
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