Happy English with Namhee: 2014

Wait to be told where to sit. There is often a strict protocol to be followed.
The eldest are served first.
The oldest or most senior person is the one who starts the eating process.
Never point your chopsticks.
Do not pierce your food with chopsticks.
Chopsticks should be returned to the table after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak.
Do not cross your chopsticks when putting them on the chopstick rest.
Do not pick up food with your hands. Fruit should be speared with a toothpick.
Bones and shells should be put on the table or an extra plate.
Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is.
Refuse the first offer of second helpings.
Finish everything on your plate.
Indicate you are finished eating by placing your chopsticks on the chopstick rest or on the table. Never place them parallel across your rice bowl.

On time

We use on time to say that something happened ‘exactly at the planned time’. We use it when speaking about timetables and arrangements. On time suggests that something or someone is neither late nor early.

I want to start the meeting on time so please don’t be late.

The films at this cinema never start on time – they always start late because of all the advertisements.

In time

If we say we arrived in time, we’re saying that we got there a little early – that there was time to spare.

We often use the structure in time to do something:

We arrived in time to get some drinks before the show started.

You need to get to the station in time to buy a ticket and find the right platform for your train.

We also say just in time:

The man was seriously injured in the crash. I think the ambulance got to him just in time. (= In time to save him.)
Come in, Lily! You’re just in time for a cup of tea and some biscuits. (= I’m just preparing tea and biscuits.)