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What is the offensive gesture in China?

globaltimes.cn - Ask Uncle Wang - Global Times

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Q: Dear Uncle Wang,

Some Chinese people point with their middle finger, a gesture that is considered very vulgar in the West.

Is there a similarly rude gesture in China that foreigners need to be aware of? And what other types of gestures and body language should I be careful about?

A: A thumb placed between the middle and index fingers is an offensive gesture in some parts of China and its meaning is similar to giving the middle finger in Western countries. But Chinese people don't gesture very much and most consider hand gestures to be unnecessary and annoying. So when speaking with Chinese people, try to keep your use of hand gestures to a minimum. A popular way to say thank you when people pour alcohol into your glass is by tapping two fingers on the table. While "thumbs up," in common with many other countries around the world, is a sign of quality and excellence. Whistling is considered rude, and so is winking. Many Chinese see it as disrespectful and as a sign of boredom. Pointing at someone with your finger is also rude, as one finger is usually only used to point at animals. Use an open hand, instead of using one or two fingers, to point at something or someone. If you are trying to get someone's attention, place your palm downwards and move your fingers towards you. But never use it to direct an older person, which is considered very rude. You should also avoid pointing, moving or touching objects with your feet. In China, feet are considered dirty. What is also considered rude in Chinese culture, especially when it comes to women, is displaying an open mouth while yawning or laughing. This is why most Chinese women cover their mouths when laughing. Chinese people are generally not very touchy-feely, and you will barely see Chinese couples kissing or holding hands in public. Also it is not common to hug or kiss when meeting new people. In fact, avoid touching altogether as most Chinese people feel uncomfortable when being touched by strangers. The most common greeting is usually shaking hands. While in the West, one expects to maintain eye contact with the other person when talking, in China eye contact tends to be indirect and looking someone in the eye can be regarded as rude or bold, especially when talking with elders or superiors in the workplace. Also, when you meet someone new, they will probably give you their name card. Accept it with both of your hands, which is considered both polite and respectful.

Please send your cultural questions about China to twocents-sh@globaltimes.com.cn

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