Can the same language mean different things in different cultures?

Is it difficult for someone English to be friends with an American? Can there be misunderstandings due to words having very different meanings on each side of the pond? It seems like it is relatively easy to insult an American with absolutely no intent whatsoever? Anyone experienced this? What did you do to remedy the situation?

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bugeye · 26-30, F

when i last visited the US i had a fun convo with a friend about the use of the C-word. rhymes with hunt.

here where i live it's more used as an edgy and cheeky term of endearment among friends but it's really taboo over there. then again most things that sound like an insult on paper are meant as endearing and it was weird for them to grasp that calling you're best friend a C*** can be friendly.

bijouxbroussard · F

@bugeye Yes ! I have a couple of English friends whom I never heard using it unless describing someone who’d really upset them (which tends to be U.S. context). It’s considered very offensive, even misogynistic here. On EP, before I understood its casual usage in the UK and Australia, too, I blocked a few people for using it. 🤭

ninalanyon · 61-69, T

@bugeye @bijouxbroussard The c-word is generally only in casual usage in the UK between people who know each other well. It is still an insult that could result in severe injury if directed at the wrong person at the wrong time or in the wrong place.