5 American Hand Gestures With Different Meanings Overseas

Every day we use hand gestures. Sometimes it is with our conversation. Other times, it is to portray what we mean without words. Unfortunately, not all cultures have the same meaning as American culture, like these 4 gestures. 

Peace Sign

The “V” hand gesture using your index and middle finger, along with your palm facing inward, is often used as a form of salutation. However, in Australia and the United Kingdom its meaning is similar to giving the middle finger. 

Stop Sign

We often use our palm facing outward to indicate to another person we want them to stop. In Greece, it has a whole other meaning. The gesture actually indicates you want to smear poop all over a person’s face!

Rock n’ Roll Horns

This simple hand sign uses the pinky and index finger as horns with your thumb overtop of your down middle fingers. However, in Brazil, Columbia, Italy, Portugal, and Spain; the meaning indicates you are too stupid to realize your wife is cheating on you. 

Waving Gesture

Americans use a wave gesture to try and beckon someone to them; but in Singapore, it means ‘death is on its way’. In fact the gesture is so offensive it can land you in jail if you use it towards a person.