14 Topics Only Americans Talk About

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14 Topics Only Americans Talk About

Talking about what Americans discuss reveals a culture filled with a variety of interests from sports to food, and traditions to everyday quirks. Each topic not only serves as a conversation starter but also highlights unique aspects of American life. These discussions might seem ordinary or even humorous to an outsider but they form a significant part of the social fabric in the United States.

1. High Price of Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is considered a popular snack in the U.S., but its high price often gets Americans talking. The snack, known for its rich flavor and high protein content, can be quite expensive due to the extensive processing and quality of meat required. Conversations about beef jerky prices reflect not just preferences in snacks but also concerns about food economy and value for money.

2. Where They Went to University

In the United States, where one attended university often becomes a lifelong identifier and a frequent topic of conversation. Alumni pride is huge and discussions about one’s university days often include fond memories, sports teams, and the lifelong friendships formed. It’s also common to discuss how the choice of university influenced one’s career path and personal development.

3. Regional Pizza or Barbecue

Debates over which region has the best pizza or barbecue are common among Americans. Whether it’s New York-style pizza versus Chicago deep-dish or Texas barbecue against Kansas City’s, these arguments show deep regional pride and a love for local flavors. It’s a playful yet passionate element of American food culture.

4. Temperature in Degrees Fahrenheit

Americans often discuss the weather using Fahrenheit, a scale that can be confusing for those used to Celsius. Conversations about the weather, particularly extreme temperatures, can serve as icebreakers or a way to express discomfort or excitement about the seasons.

5. What Should and Shouldn’t Go in the Garbage Disposal

Discussions about the proper use of a garbage disposal are common in American households. These conversations can include debates over what can safely be ground up, like food scraps, versus what might damage the disposal or plumbing, such as bones or fibrous materials. This topic often extends to broader discussions about household maintenance and chores.

6. High School Football and Marching Band

High school football and the accompanying marching band performances are significant in many American communities. They are more than just extracurricular activities; they are events that foster community spirit and local pride. Discussions might focus on recent games, band performances, or nostalgia for one’s high school days.

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7. Something about the Superbowl

The Super Bowl garners widespread attention across the U.S., transcending the realm of regular sports fans to become a national event. Even if one isn’t a football fan, discussing the game, particularly the commercials and the halftime show, is almost unavoidable. It’s a major social event that brings people together for parties and conversations.

8. Their Ancestry Percentages

Many Americans are keen on discussing their ancestry, often quantified in percentages. With the popularity of DNA testing kits, people are finding out more about their genetic backgrounds and eagerly share this information. These discussions can reveal personal stories and a deeper connection to one’s roots.

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9. College Sports

In the U.S., college sports are as significant as professional leagues, if not more so in certain regions. Fans follow their teams with fervent support, and discussions often revolve around game results, team rankings, and star players. College sports can dominate local and national sports conversations.

10. The Right Way to Build a Hot Dog

Building the perfect hot dog is subject to much debate in the U.S. From the type of bun to the choice of toppings, everyone has an opinion on what makes a hot dog great. This discussion can reflect broader food preferences and regional differences, such as the Chicago-style versus others.

11. Visiting Different States

Americans often discuss traveling across states with the same enthusiasm as one might talk about visiting different countries. Given the vast and diverse landscape of the U.S., state-to-state travel can offer dramatically different cultures, cuisines, natural sights, and experiences. This is a common topic particularly because many Americans do not travel internationally.

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12. Grits

Grits, a dish made from ground corn, is a staple in the Southern U.S. and often a subject of interest or confusion for those outside this region. The term and the food itself are uniquely American, leading to discussions about recipes, the correct consistency, and the best dishes to accompany grits.

13. Losing Your Virginity During Senior Prom

The topic of losing one’s virginity at senior prom can come up in discussions reflecting on high school experiences in the U.S. This milestone, wrapped in the rituals of prom night, can be seen as a rite of passage and is often depicted in American media, influencing how it’s discussed in real life.

14. Who Won the Last Super Bowl?

Asking who won the last Super Bowl can be a common question in American conversations, especially around the season. It reflects not just interest in the game but also the cultural phenomenon surrounding this event, including the parties, the performances, and the iconic commercials that are often as discussed as the game itself.

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