Worst-Case Scenario Gestures to Avoid
Original photo by APRIL STUDIO from Pexels.
THE UPSIDE-DOWN GLASS ON BAR
In the United States and other countries, turning your glass upside-down might indicate that you do not want anything to drink. In some pubs in Australia, however, finishing your drink, turning the glass upside-down, and placing it squarely on the bar may signal that you believe you can win a fight with anyone present.
EYE CONTACT
In New York City, do not make eye contact with anyone on a subway, train, or bus. Read a book or newspaper, or maintain an unfocused, unresponsive visage to avoid incidents.
In Pakistan, staring is common. Do not be offended if someone stares at you.
In Zimbabwe, do not maintain continued direct eye contact. It is considered rude, particularly in rural areas.
THE FIG GESTURE
The fig gesture is formed by making the hand into a fist and protruding the thumb upward between the forefinger and middle finger. In most Latin American countries it is considered phallic and very rude. In Brazil, the fig gesture means “good luck.” In parts of the United States, it means “I’ve got your nose,” part of a children’s game in which one person pretends to have captured the other person’s nose.
THE “OK” SIGN
Touching the thumb and index finger to suggest a circle, with the other fingers on the hand fanned out, indicates that everything is okay in the United States.
In Brazil, Germany, and Russia, however, it indicates a very private orifice and is an insult.
In Japan, the sign indicates that you want change. Use this gesture if you want a cashier in a store to give your change in coins.
In France, it is an insult. It denotes the number zero or the concept of something being worthless. When placed over the nose, it means “drunk.”