World Gestures
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- Date Submitted: 12/11/2011 08:24 PM
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The Meanings of Gestures Around the World
Using the wrong gesture could get you into. Be particularly aware of these gestures: Such as:
The "thumbs up" sign - In America the gesture indicates "a-okay." Yet it is considered rude in Australia, Iran and some other Muslim countries. It translates to "up yours."
The "OK" sign - Often used in America to mean approval, it is considered vulgar and obscene in Brazil, southern Italy, Germany and Greece. In Japan, this gesture signifies money. In southern France it is used to convey that something is worthless.
The pointed index finger - A pointed index finger is used to emphasize a point in American culture. However, it is impolite in the Middle East, Russia and Asia. Rather than pointing with a finger, point with an open palm instead.
The victory sign - With the index finger and middle finger raised to form a V, this gesture is a common signal in America. It means victory or peace. Be careful about using it in Britain, however. If the palm is facing toward you, the gesture is considered obscene.
Two fingers crossed - Often viewed as a sign of wishing someone good luck in Europe and the United States, it is considered offensive in Paraguay.
Shaking your head from side to side - In the U.S., shaking one's head from side to side means "no." In Bulgaria the same gesture means "yes"; moving the head up and down translates to "no"!
The hook 'em horns - This gesture is made by raising the index and pinky fingers while curling the other fingers into the palm. It is a common gesture in Texas to cheer on a sports team. In Brazil it is used to wish someone good luck. In Africa, it is considered a curse.
The beckoning gesture - This gesture is formed by curling and uncurling the index finger. It is common in most countries and means "come here." However, the gesture is offensive to Mexicans, Filipinos and the Vietnamese.
Snapping your fingers - Some might use this gesture to get someone's attention. In France...
Using the wrong gesture could get you into. Be particularly aware of these gestures: Such as:
The "thumbs up" sign - In America the gesture indicates "a-okay." Yet it is considered rude in Australia, Iran and some other Muslim countries. It translates to "up yours."
The "OK" sign - Often used in America to mean approval, it is considered vulgar and obscene in Brazil, southern Italy, Germany and Greece. In Japan, this gesture signifies money. In southern France it is used to convey that something is worthless.
The pointed index finger - A pointed index finger is used to emphasize a point in American culture. However, it is impolite in the Middle East, Russia and Asia. Rather than pointing with a finger, point with an open palm instead.
The victory sign - With the index finger and middle finger raised to form a V, this gesture is a common signal in America. It means victory or peace. Be careful about using it in Britain, however. If the palm is facing toward you, the gesture is considered obscene.
Two fingers crossed - Often viewed as a sign of wishing someone good luck in Europe and the United States, it is considered offensive in Paraguay.
Shaking your head from side to side - In the U.S., shaking one's head from side to side means "no." In Bulgaria the same gesture means "yes"; moving the head up and down translates to "no"!
The hook 'em horns - This gesture is made by raising the index and pinky fingers while curling the other fingers into the palm. It is a common gesture in Texas to cheer on a sports team. In Brazil it is used to wish someone good luck. In Africa, it is considered a curse.
The beckoning gesture - This gesture is formed by curling and uncurling the index finger. It is common in most countries and means "come here." However, the gesture is offensive to Mexicans, Filipinos and the Vietnamese.
Snapping your fingers - Some might use this gesture to get someone's attention. In France...