>>in Germany, if someone puts down their fork and knife on the plate and they are crossed, it means they are just taking a break.

In France, that same placement meant "I'm done with this plate" - unless I misunderstood or one of my buds was having me on. (I was in a student budget there, didn't make it to 'fine dining" restaurants much - mostly bistros if I went out at all.)

Any kind French person care to correct me?