翻译段落3: The meaning of time differs in different parts of the world. Thus, misunderstandings arise between people from cultures that treat time differently. Promptness is valued highly in American life. For example, if people are not prompt, they may be regarded as impolite or not fully responsible. In the U. S. no one would think of keeping a business associate waiting for an hour, for it would be too impolite. Even a person who is five minutes late is expected to make a short apology.