Getting to the point: Direct and indirect communication in Mexico

Published April 2, 2025

When my friend called me to tell me that she’d lost my dog, we first had a regular conversation for a full ten minutes. Then came the kicker: “I’m so ashamed to tell you this, but…”

Honestly, I’d personally have lead with, “Hello, I am calling because I lost your dog.” Is time not of the essence in these cases?

But first, we talked about my trip. I told her about the article I was writing. She told me about her week at work. We might have talked about our altar preparations for Day of the Dead.

When I ask another friend if she wants to go out and do something, she never asks if I’ll give her a ride. She says she would love to, only she doesn’t have money for a taxi. Honestly, I’d rather she just say, “I’m a little short on taxi money. Any chance you could pick me up and take me home?”

Read more […]

Mexico News Daily is the premier source of English-language news about Mexico. Our editors and writers synthesize information from Mexican newspapers and periodicals to bring you the day’s most important news about the country’s politics, economy, business and security. We want to inform readers, and also expand their horizons by curating engaging and useful content about art, culture, history, travel, real estate and lifestyle in Mexico.