In the United States, the most common response to a sneeze is "Bless you!" This is a shortened version of "God bless you," a phrase with historical roots in the belief that sneezing expelled the soul from the body. Saying "Bless you" was thus a way to wish the sneezer good health and ward off illness.
The Origin and Evolution of "Bless You"
The custom of saying "Bless you" after someone sneezes is deeply ingrained in American culture. Several sources point to its origin in medieval Europe, where the bubonic plague was rampant. Sneezing was a common symptom of the plague, and people believed that the force of a sneeze could potentially expel the soul. Saying "God bless you" was believed to protect the sneezer's soul. [This is supported by information from multiple sources including the Library of Congress, NBC New York, and various Quora threads.]
Over time, "God bless you" evolved into the shorter, more commonplace "Bless you." The phrase's religious origins have faded for many, yet the tradition persists as a simple expression of courtesy and concern for the well-being of the sneezer. [This evolution is discussed in the MIT Americanisms article and various Quora posts.]
Alternative Responses
While "Bless you" is the most prevalent response, some Americans also use:
- Gesundheit: This is a German word for "health," borrowed into English, particularly in regions with a history of German immigration. [This is mentioned in the Reddit thread on English Learning and Quora discussions.]
- No response: Some people might not say anything at all, especially in more informal settings.
The Proper Response to "Bless You"
The polite and expected response to "Bless you" is a simple "Thank you!" [This is explicitly stated in the MIT Americanisms explanation.]
Why Saying "Bless You" is Considered Courteous
Saying "Bless you" is considered a common courtesy, a small act of kindness that acknowledges the sneezer's experience and expresses a wish for their good health. [Reddit's AutisticAdults thread discusses this perspective, highlighting the act's social implications.]
