Etiquette expert reveals we've been buttering bread wrong all this time

Think you know how to butter bread? Well, according to an expert, we're doing it wrong. Photo / Getty Images

We all know how to butter a piece of bread.

You take the piece you want to eat and slather it in spread, then you're good to go.

It's the method we're all familiar with – but according to etiquette expert Dr Clinton Lee, we're doing it wrong.

He has described the common buttering method as "practical" but said in terms of using correct table manners, it is "incorrect".

"Many people will take the entire piece of bread and butter it on their plate," he explained in a now viral TikTok video.

Instead, the dining master – who is also a certified specialist of wine – shared the correct way, instructing to instead place the butter onto your plate.

"This is where the saying comes from, 'breaking bread'," he said.

"You break the bread into small, mouth-sized pieces, butter it and there you go. Perfect."

Lee's informative video, which has been viewed more than 1.4 million times since being shared on Saturday, has sent shockwaves among social media users.

Etiquette expert Dr Clinton Lee has described the common buttering method as "practical" but said in terms of using correct table manners, it is "incorrect". Photo / TikTok

Many were quick to correct Lee on the origin of the expression "breaking bread", claiming his description of its origin was incorrect.

According to dictionary.com, the term originally comes from the Bible where it was used to describe sharing a meal or food with others.

These days it can refer to more than just eating, often being used to describe a significant event that fosters some meaningful connection and co-operation.

However Lee wasn't wrong about breaking bread into small pieces in terms of following "proper" etiquette – especially if at a dinner party.

Other rules widely recognised by etiquette experts with regards to eating bread in a formal setting include only eating the common carb when there is a course on the table, not before, and keeping bread to the left of the main dinner plate.

Many were left horrified by the revelation, describing themselves as "monsters" and "barbaric".

Others refused to believe the extra steps were necessary.

"This doesn't even make sense; it looks like it made more mess," one said.

"In the grand scheme of things, specifically the gift of life, I find this to be complete nonsense. I really can't believe people do this," another wrote.

As one man said: "If someone is going to shame me for how I butter my bread I don't need them in my life."

However many were grateful for the tip, stating they would be using it at their next gathering.

"Why are people hating so much? He's showing what other people do, and it's great information," one wrote.

"I don't know why people are hating. Sure it's odd but it's still interesting to watch," another said.

"Wow, that's classy," one woman agreed, while another said she had "always wondered which way was the right way".