The expression "Excuse me" is more often used in United States than in China.An American say s" Excuse me" when he wants to pass in front of someone,to leave a party or a dinner or when h e finds himself late for an appointment."Thank y ou" means to appreciate what someone has don e for you.An American says"Thank you" all day l ong.For example,he will say"Thank you" to the cashier when he had paid for his food.He will sa y"Thank you" to a student if he has just answere d the question.At home the husband will thank h is wife if she brings him a cup of tea.On the othe r hand,the wife thanks her husband for helping her with her housework.So the American peopl e's idea of being polite is quite different from our s.