Dear Heloise: In a recent letter, a reader talked about certain English words having DIFFERENT MEANINGS IN OTHER COUNTRIES. I thought I would add some other hints:

* The “OK” symbol: In America, it usually means you’re content or everything is fine. But in France, Turkey, Venezuela and Brazil, it’s considered very rude slang and will offend those around you.

* Tipping: In some countries, tipping is considered improper, because serving the customer is a group effort, not an individual performance, or it may imply that the restaurant doesn’t provide decent wages. It’s considered rude in Japan, South Korea, China, France and Italy.

* Spitting: It’s considered rude and unsanitary in any country, but it might earn you a fine in some places, such as Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong.

* Blowing your nose in public: In China and Japan, blowing your nose in public or even the appearance of a handkerchief is considered disgusting. Never, ever blow your nose in a restaurant. It’s considered rude and revolting in China, Japan, Saudi Arabia and France.

* Smiling at a stranger: Extended eye contact and smiling at a stranger can make some people in foreign countries very uncomfortable. It’s considered rude in South Korea, China, Japan and Russia.

— Natasha D. in Georgia

BE MY VALENTINE

Dear Heloise: Valentine’s Day is coming this month, and I’d like to do something a little different (and not too expensive) for my husband of four weeks. Any hints to make this a happy occasion? — Jill J., Burlington, Wis.

Jill, how about a homemade dinner of all his favorite foods, a nice card and tickets for two to a movie, sports event or play? Or maybe make a nice dinner and something special for dessert, then give him a DVD he might enjoy. It’s less about the gift and more about the thought that goes into a gift. — Heloise

DON’T LEND YOUR CREDIT CARD

Dear Heloise: As crazy as it may seem, some people lend their credit card to a friend or relative. It’s not a good idea. A borrower may overspend or not pay the lender back — or not return the card at all! Advice to the wise: Don’t lend your credit cards to anyone! — Brice R., Washington, D.C.

PENSION HELP

Dear Readers: Got questions about your pension or retirement plan, or have problems and need answers? For help, contact the PensionHelp.org website. Free legal advice may be available if you need it. — Heloise

IDENTITY THEFT

Dear Readers: When someone steals your personal information to commit a fraudulent act, such as applying for a loan or credit card, filing taxes, etc., be sure to report it to IdentityTheft.gov. This service also might be able to help you develop a recovery plan. — Heloise

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.