To explore Italy, you do not have to speak a word of Italian. All you require is a warm smile, an outgoing personality, and Italian hand signals. Before you know it, you’ll be able to explore Il Bel Paese.
You will be better off relating to Italians and enjoying Italian culture if you study Italian online. Nonetheless, you can apply this brief guide to Italian hand signals to supplement your Italian.
Un momento!
This translates to, “one moment, please” in English. Just make a number one with your index finger, pointing upwards. This can also mean “may I speak, please?”, but it will be handy to learn Italian then.
Ho fame
This means “I’m hungry.” To send an obvious message to your hosts that you should be fed, use the side of your flat hand to hit your stomach. Learn Italian to learn the difference between polipo and pollo if you are tired of pasta and pizza. You’ll also be able to grasp Italian cuisine better and prevent allergies.
Ehi tu, vieni qui
“Come here”, this hand signal conveys. A similar come hither gesture applied in America is used here. You should apply this with caution because this could look sexually inviting or obnoxious. It’s still better practice to learn to say “prego, potete aiutarli” to get someone to come over.
Silenzio
This means “silence”, and utilizes the universal gesture of silence by pressing your index finger to your lips. If you wish to emphasize why you need quiet, however, you will need to learn Italian.
Idea!
Put your hand on your head and look happy, and you have effectively emphasized that you have an idea. When you tell them about this idea, though, studying Italian will be useful.
Perfetto
This looks like the American symbol for “okay” - the thumb and index fingers forming a circle. This is utilized to praise someone - very handy if you cannot speak Italian.
Scusi, devo andare al bagno
Wear a pained expression while holding up your index and middle fingers if you want to go to the bathroom. If you need frequent rest room breaks, this is handy.
Indeed, it’s sheer poetry, these Italian signals. To read Italian street signs and speak with the locals, however, learning Italian is still useful. You can opt to have the best of both worlds.
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Posted on July 18th, 2008 | filed under Learn Italian | Trackback |