Beckoning sign

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A hand in a beckoning position

A beckoning sign is a type of gesture intended to beckon or call-over someone or something. It is usually translated into "come here". This form of nonverbal communication varies from culture to culture, each having a relatively unique method of indicating invitation or enticement.

Around the world[edit]

United States[edit]

In the United States, the "beckoning finger" or the "beckoning palm" are the most common gestures implying beckoning. Both are accomplished by up-turning the palm, and extending and retracting either one or two fingers while keeping the rest clenched in a fist or by extending and retracting all of the fingers, all while keeping the palm upturned.[citation needed]

Japan[edit]

The American beckoning sign is considered an insult in Japan, signifying a dog or other animal. To beckon in Japan, the hand is placed at head-level, palm facing down, and waved back and forward with the fingers pointing toward the ground.[1]

Philippines[edit]

In the Philippines, beckoning someone in the American fashion is regarded rude and fit only for dogs. It may also be punishable by arrest.[2] The acceptable way to call someone is to use four fingers pointing down, with the palm facing the beckoner.

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ Ju Brown; John Brown (2006). China, Japan, Korea: Culture and Customs. Ju Brown. pp. 55–. ISBN 978-1-4196-4893-9.
  2. ^ Gayle Cotton (August 13, 2013). "Gestures to Avoid in Cross-Cultural Business: In Other Words, 'Keep Your Fingers to Yourself!'". The Huffington Post. Retrieved August 8, 2016.