Gestures
Back to: Understanding and Misunderstanding – Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Gestures seem to be less universal than facial expressions. Some of them just exist in certain regions and are of no importance in other regions. Some gestures have varying meanings in different parts of the world – a fact that can lead to misunderstanding and irritation.
Example 1: The Ring
For example, the „ring“ formed by thumb and index finger in the USA and most parts of Europe means „OK“. In the South of France, however, it symbolizes the figure „zero“ and means „worthless“.
Even though gestures very often have their roots in a certain culture, there are definitely gestures that are widespread and almost universal. Some examples are
- Showing (stretch arm, hand and index finger)
- Shrugging
- Nodding
- Clapping hands
- Waving
But it would be too easy to generally assume that your gestures will be properly understood by people from different countries or cultures.
Example 2: Head-shaking
For example, most of the cultures shake their heads when they want to show negation. In Greece, however, negation is expressed by throwing back the head.
Often gestures are used along with verbal expressions.
Example 3: Rich Set Of Gestures
For example, people in the South of Italy have a very elaborated set of gestures accompanying verbal dialogues. Studies showed that communication in cultures that use a rich set of gestures is clearer and less mistakable than in other cultures.