
How does body language differ between the UK and the US
Die Geheimnisse der Körpersprache in der englischen Kommunikation: How does body language differ between the UK and the US
Body language between the UK and the US is quite similar, but there are some key differences in gestures, eye contact, and communication style that one should be aware of to avoid misunderstandings.
Similarities
- Both Brits and Americans maintain similar personal space, keeping polite distance even in crowded places.
- The overall use of body language is fairly alike, reflecting the close cultural and language ties between the two countries.
Differences in Body Language and Gestures
- Americans tend to have firmer handshakes and make more direct eye contact seen as a sign of confidence, while Brits may use softer handshakes and avoid prolonged eye contact as it can be considered aggressive or uncomfortable.
- The “V” sign made with the back of the hand facing outward means victory or peace in both countries, but flipped with the back of the hand facing inward is offensive in the UK, akin to a middle finger in the US.
- The “OK” sign is generally positive in the US but can be offensive or have controversial meanings in certain parts of the UK.
- Thumbs-up is a positive gesture in the US, but in some older or rural UK areas, it might be sarcastic or dismissive.
- Pointing directly at people is more frowned upon in the UK as confrontational, while in the US it is more tolerated but still not very polite.
Communication Style Impacting Body Language
- British communication often includes subtext and indirect expressions, meaning they might use softer gestures or body language to imply meaning rather than direct statements.
- Americans tend to be more straightforward and literal in their expressions, both verbally and nonverbally.
- This difference can influence how gestures and expressions are perceived—what may be seen as polite or subtle in the UK could be interpreted as evasive or unclear by Americans, and vice versa.
Thus, while the fundamental body language cues are similar, the nuances and interpretations differ, making awareness important especially for cross-cultural interactions between Americans and Brits. 1, 2, 3, 4