Do you think its rude to place your elbows on the table while eating.?

Question

if so. why?

Answer 1

If there is room to do so, then I will. I even do it at a fine dining. I like being comfortable thats all.

Answer 2

Yes very.

It makes you look lazy & sloppy.

Originally it was a courtesy made out of necessity. If someone had their elbows on the table, someone else couldn't eat because there was no room. Now it's frowned upon because accidents can happen. Place settings can be knocked around or spills can happen.

Answer 3

I think it's fine while you are waiting on your food...or after you're done eating and you're just sitting there talking....but while you are eating...I would say it's bad manners and the reason is because that's just the way it is..

Answer 4

that is crazy i wuld neva scold sumone for puttin there elbows on the table unless they just dipped there elbows n a big pile of sumthin nasty like ****

Answer 5

Yes, i think you have no manners if doing so

Answer 6

It all depends on the setting.  If you're out with friends at a casual restaurant, I don't see why it would be a big deal.  But if you're at a business meeting, out with someone you're trying to impress, in a nice restaurant, etc. then you shouldn't  put your elbows on the table simply because it shows a lack of class.

Although I don't think it's typically a big deal, I would teach my children not to put their elbows on the table.  That "home training" as my friend calls it, would prepare them for those days/nights out when they have to show whatever class they may have.

Answer 7

What table?

Answer 8

Yes, it is considered rude.  It makes it appear that you can not support yourself with your back bone.  It obstructs the view of your dinner companions and interfers with polite conversation.  Sit upright at the table, one hand in your lap except when eating things like corn on the cob, large sandwiches, or cutting items.  Use a napkin to wipe your mouth and do not talk with food in your mouth.  (Lesson over)

Answer 9

according to the rules of Etiquette it is .

Answer 10

apparantly it is rude but it doesn't really bother me... i cant see why it would unless you stick your elbow into someones plate or the food by accident..... i dunno, that was the first thing that came to mind.....

Answer 11

so i'm told!

Answer 12

Well my mother always said so, but she said a lot of other things that I don't believe now that I'm an adult.  At a fancy dinner, I'd say it's a no, when you are home alone or alone as with your family, be relaxed.

Answer 13

Yes, because my Mommy says so. :o)

Answer 14

Seriously, it doesn't make any difference to me.

When I was 18, I went to that summer camp. If they catch you with your elbow on the table, you have to stand on a chair and sing a song to everybody. It was quite embarassing, but lots of fun.

Answer 15

yes,  Emily Post said so!

Answer 16

I think it's acceptable if you're eating something like BBQ or fast food, but if you're at a nicer establishment, it's always best to mind your manners.  Napkin in lap, elbows off table, no l*****g fingers, etc.

Answer 17

depends, this is one of those old formal dinner rules dating to the age of debutant balls.  if you are out at a business dinner, or something formal, or with strangers don't do it.  if you are out with friends at a semi casual restaurant who cares, i don't know why this started, but it does show a lack of class and social grace if you do it in the wrong setting.

it's kind of like, why take your hat off in buildings, or why does your napkin have to be in your lap, or why to all the other rules in restaurants?  don't know, but you should follow them, people do notice when you don't. especially your waitress, trust me, some people are just more socially adept than others, i try to be in the former category as much as possible, it shows a good upbringing.

Answer 18

its 2008.men can marry other men!(i have no opinion on that)but the point is...............it used to be rude.times have changed........the world has changed.i say sit down,elbows wherever,just dont take a dump on the table.(at least not if you have dinner guests)