Respecting Elders (Yaşlılara Saygı)
Turkish culture places high value on respecting elders. This includes using respectful language, standing when they enter, kissing their hand (el öpme), and listening attentively. Age brings authority and wisdom in Turkish society.
Usage contextsocial
Do
- Use 'siz' (formal you) with elders, not 'sen'
- Stand up when an elder enters the room
- Offer your seat to elders on public transport
- Kiss elders' hands and bring to your forehead (el öpme) in traditional families
- Listen without interrupting when elders speak
- Address them as 'Teyze' (aunt), 'Amca' (uncle), 'Abla' (older sister), 'Abi' (older brother)
Don't
- Don't use 'sen' with people significantly older
- Don't contradict or argue with elders publicly
- Don't sit while elders are standing
- Don't ignore or talk over elders
- Don't smoke or drink alcohol in front of elders unless they approve
- Don't use first names with elders unless invited