Nice is a word that has many meanings, and the etymology of the term shows its evolution through time. Although it may be used as a compliment in modern society, it originally meant silly or foolish. On this week’s edition of That’s What They Say, University of Michigan English Professor Anne Curzan and host Rina Miller discuss the different senses of the word nice and how they have evolved over time.
Nice, France
A city on the French Riviera, Nice is a seaside resort and business center that is home to numerous cultural facilities and shops. It also has an active yachting harbor and is a popular destination for tourists. The city’s economy is largely based on tourism, and it also has a significant financial sector that includes banks, insurance companies, and high-technology firms. The city is also the largest employer in the Alpes-Maritimes department.
Being nice means treating everyone with respect. This doesn’t mean allowing people to push you around or act inappropriately, but it does mean avoiding judgmental language and making eye contact. You should also be willing to help out a friend in need. This could be as simple as picking up something they dropped or helping them reach an item on a shelf.
When you’re talking to a friend, it’s important to listen attentively and ask questions when necessary. This can make them feel heard and valued, which will help to strengthen the bond between you. It’s also nice to offer praise and affirmation. You can do this by telling them what you admire about them or mentioning something they’ve done well.
It’s never nice to talk about someone behind their back, even if you aren’t a gossip. It’s disrespectful and ruins trust. Nice people always speak positively about others in their presence, and they avoid gossiping about those who aren’t present.
To be a true friend, you must know how to make your friends smile and feel special. There are many ways you can do this, including sending them a thoughtful card or writing an old-fashioned letter. You can even give them a scented candle or a box of chocolates.
Lastly, you can give your friends and family an experience that will improve their mood. Research has shown that spending time in nature boosts happiness, and this can be especially helpful if you live in an urban area. Alternatively, you can try meditation together, which is known to improve moods by synchronizing brain waves. Regardless of how you choose to show your friends how much you care, there’s no doubt that they’ll appreciate the effort you put into making them happy. It’s nice to have friends that will always be there for you, even when things are tough.