During the holiday season, many of us enjoy get-togethers with friends and family oftentimes at festive and more formal dinners. As we enjoy these meals with loved ones, we can all use a little brushing up on dining etiquette. That’s why we’ve compiled some advice from experts who are revealing what the positioning of your knife and fork can tell those hosting you.

If you are not yet finished eating but simply want to take a short break, placing your knife and fork in an upside down V position or leaving the knife resting on the top of the plate indicates to your host that you’re not done.

To indicate that you are indeed finished, put the knife and fork in the center of the plate in a parallel position. This will let your waiter or host know that you are done with your meal.

If you have finished your appetizer, you can indicate that you are ready for your next meal by placing your knife in a cross formation underneath your fork. You should have your fork pointing vertically and knife pointing horizontally in this way.

If you want to make it known that you did not enjoy your meal, you can send a message with your silverware by placing your knife’s blade through the fork’s tongs in a “V” formation.

Finally, one thing you should not do is your cross your knife and fork in an “X” shape, which is described as a “nightmare.” Leaving your silverware like this makes it nearly impossible for a waiter to pick up your plate without losing a utensil.

Be sure to keep these silverware rules in mind as you enjoy different meals this holiday season!