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Tuesday, 27/1/2026 | 14:40 GMT+7

9 tactless questions that ruin the Tet holiday atmosphere

Instead of asking about salary or marriage, psychologists advise focusing on connection to avoid turning family gatherings into an "interrogation room".

Rebecca Love, a psychotherapist in California, United States, suggests that the Tet holiday is an opportunity to meet, but also a time when many people unintentionally ask questions that spoil others' enjoyment. Though familiar, they can create pressure, cause embarrassment, or a feeling of being judged.

Here are the questions you should avoid:

When are you getting married, having children?

"Unless they volunteer the information, it's not your business", Rebecca Love said. An increasing number of people are choosing single lifestyles, postponing marriage, or raising pets instead of having children. Questions about childbirth can inadvertently cut deep into the pain of those struggling with infertility.

Instead of asking, "When are you getting married?", ask: "What has excited you most over the past year?"

How much do you earn a month?

In a challenging economic climate, with many people facing layoffs or struggling to find work, direct questions about income or career can be awkward. Nicolle Osequeda, a psychotherapist in Chicago, United States, suggests that inquiries about costs and money often come across as judgmental, forcing the listener to justify their spending.

Avoid dismissive questions like, "Are you still doing that job?"

Alternative question: "What's been interesting in your work lately?"

Why are you so heavy/thin lately?

"That is someone else's body and personal space; you are overstepping your bounds", Nicolle Osequeda stated. Weight changes for many reasons and are not always positive.

Similarly, the question, "You look tired, is everything alright?" is also a disguised form of body shaming, making the other person feel self-conscious even if they are feeling fine.

Advice: Compliment their spirit or the energy they exude. For example: "You look radiant today."

Do you have a partner yet?

Esther Perel, an American psychologist, believes the issue lies with the emotions accompanying the question. Asking young people about dating with a sarcastic tone is essentially an implied criticism. Instead of prying into private lives to satisfy curiosity, choose general topics for everyone to discuss.

Have you seen your parents lately?

Asking about a strained relationship can reopen old wounds and create confrontation right at the dinner table. Esther Perel warns that this question inadvertently puts the person asked in a difficult position, and your concern can easily be misunderstood as taking sides.

Alternative questions: "What are you grateful for this year?" or "If we don't meet like this again, what will you miss most?"

Why aren't you drinking alcohol?

Pressuring someone to explain why they chose a soft drink instead of hard liquor is an unnecessary intrusion. This question sometimes reflects the inquirer's own insecurity about their drinking habits.

Did you get plastic surgery recently?

Medical or cosmetic interventions are private matters. Experts advise adhering to the "golden rule": Do not comment on appearance; focus instead on the qualities and personality traits you admire in them.

Nhat Minh (According to Time)

By VnExpress: https://vnexpress.net/9-cau-hoi-kem-duyen-pha-hong-khong-khi-ngay-tet-5010526.html
Tags: Tet holiday psychology Tet holiday etiquette asking about salary body shaming questions not to ask tactless questions Tet holiday pressure when to get married communication skills

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