Gestures and greeting

Greeting and gestures around the world

Let's read about greetings and gestures around the world.

In many countries it is popular to say hello to each other with a handshake and good friends greet each other with a hug. How do you greet your friends?

In many places and situations it is also important to make an eye contact when you are talking to someone. Do you know why?

Let’s take a look at different gestures around the world:

In Saudi Arabia, shaking the head from side to side means “no” and it’s rude to sit in front of someone with your legs crossed.

In Thailand, people greet each other by pressing their palms together (fingers pointing up, as if saying a prayer) and bowing their heads. Can you try to show this gesture?

In China, people say hello with a small nod and a bow. Do you know what a nod is?

In Japan people wave their hands during a coversation. Do you know what it could mean?

This gesture means "I don't understand" in Japan.

What could placing your hands on hips mean in Mexico and Argentina?

In Mexico and Argentina, standing with your hands on your hips is an unfriendly gesture.