Saying "bless you" or "God bless you" when someone sneezes is such a common custom, it is considered poor manners to let a sneeze go unanswered.

Why Do We Say "Bless You" When Someone Sneezes?

Arts & Culture

S aying "bless you" or "God bless you" when someone sneezes is such a common custom, it is considered poor manners to let a sneeze go unanswered. Indeed, not saying it can lead to an awkward and uncomfortable silence, which might explain why a singular sneeze can garner several blessings from people nearby. The question is, why exactly is the phrase "bless you" the standard response to a sneeze?

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