New Yorkers have their own language without even speaking to each other. We just move throughout our busy days bypassing one another, but there are a few understandings that we have. 

You know when you've broken one of these rules when you find yourself on the wrong end of an evil glare, lost somewhere in (dare we say it) the Bronx, or looking down at your wallet with the, "What happened?" look. 

We're going to break the silence here because everybody deserves a fair warning and, no, until now, there aren't. 

Here, a few reminders for transplants, tourists, and newcomers alike to stay safe on all accounts, the list of things we shouldn't have to say.  

You can thank us afterwards. 

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1. Your bag doesn't need its own seat 

No matter how big your bag is, it doesn’t need its own seat. 

This is possibly one of the rudest things to do on a crowded subway car. However, normally in these situations a native will lay down the law. 

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2. Learn how to sleep

If you’re going to go to sleep on the subway (which isn’t advised), learn the art of sleeping upright. #KeepItClassy

If you're lucky (and exhausted) your subway ride is a quick escape from the busy NY streets. Close your eyes and let the Mariachi band soothe you to sleep. 

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 3. “Man-spreading” Do we even need to say it?

We get it. You think your junk needs all the space in the world, or you're really tall and too awkward to know what to do with your legs. 

Either way, your wide-spread legs are taking up valuable space. Cross your ankles or something, dude. 

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4. Don’t hold the subway doors open more than once. 

If your friend doesn’t make it, they were walking too slow.

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5. No one is listening to you perform on the subway car (you too, Brandy)

Sometimes you'll be pleasantly surprised by the harmonies and original songwriting, but usually you just want to get home in silence. 

Keep it on the platform and that’s only if you’re good.

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6. If you’re not in a rush, get out of the way

Think about it like driving (for those who know how): keep up with the flow of traffic. If you can't, or are too busy taking pictures, step to the side and let the rest of us get to work on time. 

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7. Never sit too close to someone when there are empty seats in the car.

We like our personal space, and the space outside of that. 

If you can help it, sit as far away as possible from the next person. The more space, the less creepy you seem.

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8. Don't ask anyone with headphones on for directions. 

Headphones or a book, asking these people for directions is asking for the WRONG directions. Try a friendly face (if you can find one). 

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9. Don't make eye contact with anyone one the 2, 3, or 7; don't inhale the air on the E; meet a hipster on the L; avoid the J at all costs

Every subway has its own unique culture in a way. Just a few quick tips to keep in mind. 

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10. If you're not going to give money to the dancers "getting light", the 5-man Mariachi band, or the homeless beggars, don't bother looking up at them.

It's rude. 

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11. Don't touch the poles on the subway unless you have a strong faith in your immune system.

Just think about the hundreds of men, women, and children who's germs touch those silver poles. Gross! 

Your best bet? Leaning against a door or making a friend hold the pole and hold onto them. 

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12. Bikers have death wishes. 

Dodge their paths. And fast. 

Check out 6 Essential Tips to Surviving and Succeeding in NYC.