Rather than cross their fingers, the Germans press their thumbs. But if you try to do this in Germany, people might struggle to understand you (and look at you a little funny). In the U.S., it’s super easy to show that you’re hoping for luck-all you need to do is cross your fingers. On the other hand, the “thumbs down” in German culture has the same meaning as in English-disagreement or disapproval. Later on, Bridget Von Hammersmark reveals the spy’s mistake. (This is also an example of how important it is to understand the nuances of gestures and body language!) A German would have shown the number three by holding up their index and middle fingers alongside their thumb. In one particular scene, a spy who’s posing as a German soldier in a bar gives himself away by holding up his three middle fingers when asking for three glasses. If you’ve seen the movie “Inglourious Basterds,” you’ll probably already be aware of this. But when you make this sign in Germany, people will just think that you’re counting. If you’re generally happy with something or want to let someone know that you agree with them, in the U.S., we simply give a “thumbs up.” This is done by making a fist and pointing the thumb upward. Here are some of the most important German gestures that you need to know about and a couple of familiar gestures to make sure you avoid while in the land of bratwurst, Prinzregententorte (a Bavarian torte with chocolate and buttercream) and some of the best beer in the world! 1. Also, many body language experts believe that gesturing while we talk can help our brain find words and phrases! Some scientific studies of nonverbal communication show that we use body language and gestures to help us stick to a natural rhythm of speech. Not only that, but German gestures can really help your fluency. If you start counting like in English instead, starting with the index finger, then it can confuse who you’re talking to. German even has a gesture called Zählen, where counting one starts with the thumb, then add the index finger for two, the ring finger for three and so on. Germans might not be known for emphatic hand gestures, but they do use them.īeing familiar with German gestures will help you understand the language and culture better and avoid social faux pas! For example, maintaining eye contact while speaking is seen as basic politeness in Germany (along with being punctual). (Download) Why Knowing German Gestures is Important Waving Your Hand in Front of Your Faceĭownload: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that youĬan take anywhere. Why Knowing German Gestures is Important.You won’t have a problem with some, but others might unintentionally offend the listener. But we are going to ask you to be careful when you use common gestures in Germany. You probably don’t even realize how often you give the thumbs-up sign, shrug your shoulders or wave your hands around.ĭon’t worry, we’re not going to scold you. By Laura Harker Last updated: Novem8 Important German Gestures and Body Language Tips to Keep You Out of TroubleĮven think about how often you use gestures when you speak?
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |