Gestures

5.3 Gestures

Hello, everyone, do you make gestures in your daily life? Such as this, this and this. I guess your answer is yes. You know they are very common in people’s communication.

The language of gesture is one important area in the study of nonverbal communication. It is mainly a matter of how people use their hands to convey a message.

Maybe you would say “Oh, I know a lot of gestures. Look at here, the first means “good”, the second means “victory”, and the last one is “OK”. Are they really so simple? I’d like to remind you to be careful. The meaning of gestures can be different across cultures and regions. If you don’t use them appropriately, maybe you would be like this…

In today’s class, we will learn some gestures in detail. Now the first part, same gesture, different meanings.

1. The Thumb-up Sign

The gesture is so common in our daily life. It has become an almost universal signal for “Good”, “Great”, or “Well-done” in the U.S., China and Europe. In the U.S. and parts of Europe, it is also used for hitch-hiking by slightly bending the wrist to the right side.

However, in Iran, the gesture is highly offensive. So, next time you try hitch-hiking or praise somebody in Iran, you should reconsider before sticking out your thumb.

2. The V Sign

The palm-outward “V” gesture is used as a signal for victory or peace in more and more countries. And while taking photos, a lot of people also make the gesture. But do remember that the palm should be outward, not inward.

In some countries in Europe, if you make the “V” sign with your palm facing yourself, people see it as an insult or a provocation. In fact, it is the nonverbal equivalent of “up yours!” In Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, this gesture signals obscenity. In 1941, Churchill, evidently unaware of the vulgar usage, got some surprised stares when he gave the palm-inward "V" to British troops. In 1992, during George Bush’s visit in Australia, he made the same mistake as Churchill had done. The gesture provoked public outrage.

3.The OK Sign

In most countries, such as in China and Britain, it means agreement or “Fine”, “No problem”.

In Japan and Korea it signifies money.

In Tunisia it means “I will kill you.”

In France it means zero or worthless.

The gesture can also be used as an insult in some countries, such as Italy, Turkey, Russia and Brazil. Former U.S. President Richard Nixon once paid a visit to Brazil. While he came out of the aircraft, he made a gesture of “OK”, which angered and insulted the Brazilian. In the end, Nixon formally apologized for it.

4. The Index Finger Beckoning Sign

In the United States and Britain, the gesture is acceptable to summon someone to “come here.”

In some Asian countries, such as in the Philippines and Malaysia, it is used only for calling animals. To use it with a person is derogatory.

In Indonesia and Australia, it is also used for beckoning prostitutes.

Now, think about how do you beckon others? In China, the gesture for beckoning is quite different. Just like this.

So, when you want to call somebody in different countries, be careful with your gestures.

From the above, we know the same gesture may mean differently in different settings. In fact, in many TV plays, shows or films, we can also find a lot of gestures.

Here I have prepared three short videos to share with you. Now, let’s watch the first one.

1. Crossed Fingers Sign

Do you know what the gesture means?The gesture is called the crossed fingers sign.

In Anglo-American cultures, it is used to wish somebody good luck. Some people cross their fingers when they take an exam and have an important interview. Other people make the gesture when they buy a lottery ticket. And the sign is also the logo for the UK’s National Lottery.

However, in Vietnam, this is an obscene gesture, especially when done while looking at or addressing another person. The crossed fingers are said to resemble female genitals.

Next, the second video.

2. Bull Horns Sign

This gesture is Bull Horns Sign. It is often seen in concert and sports field. When North Americans want to rock and roll all night or cheer on a sports team with a name like “Cowboys” or “Longhorns”, they raise their index and little fingers like bull horns.

In Italy, Spain, and Brazil, this is an extremely offensive gesture and it means that a man’s wife is being unfaithful. In 1985, five Americans were arrested in Rome because they gestured in this way at the Vatican.

So, think twice before making this motion, especially when standing right behind a man.

Moreover, don’t confuse this gesture with another one. Look at the two pictures, have you found out the small difference between them?

The second gesture is very popular in American society and now it is commonly accepted by the whole world. It means “I love you.”

Well，let’s watch the last one.

3. Middle Finger Sign

Why do people look at Mr. Bean with surprised and angry looks, because he makes the middle finger sign. In many cultures, especially in western countries, it is an offensive and obscene gesture, widely recognized as a form of insult. In 2011, a top Russian newsreader was caught to raise middle finger after referencing US President Barack Obama during a live newscast. Because of the special meaning of the gesture, she was fired eventually.

Maybe at this moment you would say: “Ok, in order to avoid making mistakes I just simply shove my hands in the pocket.” “Sorry, you are wrong.” In a number of countries, ranging from Belgium to Indonesia, keeping you hands in your pockets is also regarded as impolite.

So, when you express your feelings and thoughts with gestures in intercultural communication, be careful and do not use them too freely.

Through today’s learning, you know a gesture in one culture may be quite different in another. Sometimes a slightest variation in performing a certain gesture can be the catalyst for a violent confrontation. So, remember what we have learned today. Hope this class would help you to communicate more smoothly with people from different cultures.

Practice

Argentina

Dress is veryimportant for making a good impression in Argentina: yourentire wardrobe will be scrutinized Business dress is conservative: dark suitsand ties for men: white blouses and dark suits or skirts for women. Indianclothing is for Indians -- don’t adopt any nativecostumes!

Maintaining eyecontact is very important

A pat on theshoulder is a sign of friendship

A sweepinggesture beginning under the chin and continuing up over the top of the head isused to mean “I don’tknow” or “Idon’tcare”

With thumb andfinger touching (as if holding a pinch of salt), one taps them with the indexfinger to indicate “hurry up”or “alot”

Make sure tocover your mouth when yawning or coughing

Don’tput your feet up on any furniture

Eating in thestreet or on public transportation is considered rude

Brazil

Touching arms and elbows and backs verycommon

The O. K. hand signal a rude gesture inBrazil

To express appreciation, a Brazilian mayappear to pinch his earlobe between thumb and forefinger

To invoke good luck, place your thumb betweenyour index an middle finders while making a fist. This is also known as the"fig"

Flicking the fingertips underneath the chinindicates that you do not know the answer to a question

The “V for Victory” sign is an insult if yourpalm is facing yourself. If you must use this sign, face your palm outward.

Chile

Men customarily wear dark blue or gray suit,a light shirt, and a conservative tie. Bright colors and flashy fashions arenot suitable, nor is wearing anything on the lapel. Women should wear a suitand heels

Men should note that when a woman enters aroom, the polite gesture is to rise and be prepared to shake her hand if sheoffers it. A seated woman, however, need not rise nor is she obliged to offerher hand

Chileans converse in close proximity to oneanother

Maintaining eye contact is necessary to showinterest and sincerity

At a meal, keep your hands above the table atall times

Yawns should be stifled or covered with thehand

Holding the palm upward and then spreadingthe fingers signals that someone is "stupid"

Slapping your right fist into your left openpalm is considered obscene

Do not raise your right fist to head level,as this is a Communist sign

Costa Rica

Local people bathe frequently becauseof the heat, and guests are expected to bathe at least once daily

Making a fist with the thumb stickingout between the middle and an index fingers is obscene. Thisgesture is known as the "fig"

Most North American gestures will beunderstood is Costa Rica

Don't put your feet up on any furnitureexcept items expressly designed for that purpose

Fidgeting with your hands or feet isconsidered distracting and impolite

Colombia

Colombians stand closer together whenconversing than North Americans, however they engage in less physical contactduring conversation than other South Americans

It is impolite to yawn in public

Colombian women will often substitutethe gesture of holding forearms for a handshake

Colombians indicate that someone isstingy by tapping their fingers on their elbow

The"O.K." gesture (thumb and forefinger curled into a circle) whenplaced as a circle over one's nose indicates that someone is homosexual

Two pointing fingers (as NorthAmericans would use to indicate length) is an obscene gesture in Colombia

Avoid putting your feet up on a tableor other piece of furniture

Womenvisitors should be especially sensitive about making any glance or gesture thatmight be considered flirtatious

Ecuador

Ecuadorians stand closer together when conversing than North Americans

It is consideredimpolite to yawn or point at others in public

Nervous,repetitive movements (toe tapping, knee jiggling, thumb twiddling, and so forth)should be minimized --Ecuadorians find them annoying

Egypt

Foreignersare expected to abide by local standards of modesty however, do not adoptnative clothing

A jacket andtie are usually required for men at business meetings. Men should wear longpants and a shirt.

Women shouldalways wear modest clothing in public.

El Salvador

Do not point your fingers at anyone

Good eye contact is important in businesssituations

Salvadorans are expressive with bothhands and face: this complements their verbal communication

To beckon someone over, extend the armand wriggle the fingers with the palm down. Only summon close friends with thisgesture

Yawning in public is considered rudeand should be avoided

Guatemala

Guatemalans wave good-bye using a gesture that looks like someone fanning themselves. Hand raised, palm toward thebody, and a wave of the fingers back and forth, with the fingers together as if encased in a mitten

The"fig" gesture (thumb-tip protruding from between the fingersof a closed fist) and the "O.K." sign (thumb andforefinger forming a circle) are both considered obscene

Hong Kong

It is common in China to show one's surprise or dismay by sucking airin quickly and loudly through the lips and teeth. If you have beenshown this gesture, it would be advisable to modify your request. Your host is obviously displeased.

India

The head isconsidered the seat of the soul. Never touch someone else's head, not even topat the hair of a child.

Beckoningsomeone with the palm up and wagging one finger can be construed as in insult.Standing with your hands on your hips will be interpreted as an angry,aggressive posture.

Whistling isimpolite and winking may be interpreted as either an insult or a sexualproposition.

Never point yourfeet at a person. Feet are considered unclean. If your shoes or feet touchanother person, apologize.

Indonesia

Do not crookyour index finger to call someone over. This gesture is offensive.

Do not putyour hands into your pockets when talking with someone.

Japan

Remember the Japanese phrase 'The nailthat sticks up gets hit with the hammer" when considering your choices forattire in Japan.

Avoid using large hand gestures,unusual facial expressions and any dramatic movements. The Japanese do not talkwith their hands and to do so could distract your host.

Avoid the "OK" sign; in Japanit means money.

Pointing in not acceptable.

Do no blow your nose in public

Personal space is valued. Because theJapanese live in such a densely populated area, they value their personalspace.

A smile can have double meaning. It canexpress either joy or displeasure. Use caution with your facial expressions.They can be easily misunderstood.

The Japanese are not uncomfortable withsilence. They use it to their advantage in many situations. Allow your host tosit in silence.

Mexico

Standing with your hands on your hips suggests aggressiveness, and keeping your hands in your pockets is impolite.

Mexicans may not make eye contact. This is a signof respect and should not be taken as an affront.

Menshake hands upon meetingand leaving, and willwait for a woman to bethe first to offer herhand.

Women may shake hands with men and other women. Many times a woman may pat another woman's shoulder or forearm, or kiss on the cheek.

Longtime friends mayembrace, and after several meetings you may also be greeted with an embrace.

New Zealand

Umbrellas and raincoats are necessary most of the year because of the climate and rainfall. The climate is temperate, not tropical. A medium weight wool gabardine would be a good choice of fabric for your basic wardrobe.

Do not use the "V for victory" sign while in this country.

Panama

Most North American gestures areunderstood

Russia

Donot stand with your hands in your pockets. This is considered rude.

Womendress rather conservatively, avoiding overly flashy or gaudy outfits.

Womenshould always cover their heads when entering into any Russian OrthodoxChurches.

Skirtsshould be worn rather than pants.

When attending dinner in a citizen's home, casual dress of slacks and anice shirt without a tie are appropriate.

When shaking hands with someone, be sure to take off your gloves, as itis considered rude not to.

When attending any formal engagements such as the theatre, it is appropriate to check your coat and other belongingsat the front door of the establishment.

Do not show the soles of your shoes, asthis is considered impolite. They are considered dirty, and should never come in contact with any type of seat (like on a subway or bus).

Saudi Arabia

Never show bare shoulders, stomach, calves and thighs.

Visitors are expected to abide by localstandards of modesty however, do not adopt native clothing. Traditional clothes on foreigners may be offensive.

Despite the heat, most of the body must always remain covered.

Women should always wear modest clothing in public. High necklines sleeves at least tothe elbows are expected. Hemlines, if not ankle-length should atleast be well below the knee. A look of baggy concealment should be the goal,pants or pant suits are not recommended. It is a good idea to keep a scarf handy,especially if entering a Mosque.

Itis common to remove your shoes before entering a building. Follow the lead ofyour host.

Alcohol andpork are illegal.

In the Muslim world. Friday is the dayof rest.

The left handis considered unclean and reserved for hygiene avoid gestures with the righthand. Do not point at another person and do not eat with the left hand.

Men walking hand in hand is a sign a friendship.

Spain

The Spanish dress more formal than many other Europeans. In Spain, it isimportant to project good taste in apparel.

Shorts are not usually worn in public.

If you pull down on your eyelid in Spain, you are insinuating to"be alert" or that "I am alert."

In Spain, crossing you fingers hasseveral good meanings, usually things such as "protection" or"good luck". This is a nice gesture to be friendly.

South Africa

South Africans of Urban culturesgenerally wear western dress.

Dress well in public, it will beexpected by your South African host.

African women wear a sari.

Taiwan

Conservative dress for men is changingrapidly to a more open style, due largely in part to the younger staff.

Women shoulddress conservatively as well with a simple skirt and blouse.

Causalactivities should reflect a modest dress.

Appearance should be neat and clean.

Winking is inappropriate in any situation.

Do not touchanother person's shoulders.

Do not touch anyone's head particularlythe head of someone's child. Children are held in very high regard in Taiwan.

Do not touchor point at anything with your feet, they are considered dirty.

United Arab Emirates

Visitors are expected to abide by localstandards of modesty however, do not adopt native clothing. Traditional clothes on foreigners may be offensive.

Despite the heat, most of the body mustalways remain covered.

Women should always wear modestclothing in public. High necklines sleeves at least to the elbows are expected. Hemlines, ifnot ankle-length should at least be well below the knee. A look of baggy concealment should be the goal, pants or pant suits are not recommended. It is a good idea to keep a scarf handy,especially if entering a Mosque.

Venezuela

Dress for men is conservative - dark businesssuits of tropical weight wool

Fashion is very important to Venezuelanwomen. Women should pack their best business clothes and one cocktail dress

People tend to stand very close togetherwhen conversing. Venezuelans often touch each other's arms or jacket duringconversation

Posture while seated is important:avoid slouching