listed here are some topics to avoid in an exchange with new acquaintances and for visitors who are not perfectly familiar with local language, social conditions, and carioca culture, because at times, even the best of intentions could lead to unintentional offense - praising something could somehow result in indirect criticism of something else, potentially close to the heart of another person at the table.

in many situations it is considered culturally inappropriate to enter into an open confrontation, and in case a carioca does feel offended by a clumsy remark or an overly outspoken foreigner, one is most likely going to withdraw from the situation without speaking up.