Which gestures are considered rude or offensive in Chinese culture

In Chinese culture, several gestures are considered rude or offensive due to their cultural meanings or connotations. Key gestures to avoid include:

• Pointing with the index finger: This is seen as disrespectful; instead, an open palm with all fingers extended is preferred for indicating direction or a person.
• Calling someone over with an upward palm and wiggling fingers: This resembles calling an animal and is extremely disrespectful.
• Giving the pinkie finger: It implies weakness or feebleness and is considered rude, similar to the middle finger in the West.
• Giving the middle finger: Universally offensive, it signifies strong disrespect in China as well.
• Loudly sucking air through teeth: Seen as a sign of annoyance or disapproval.
• Excessive hand movements: Can be interpreted as impatience or being overly dramatic.
• Winking, whistling, or clicking fingers: These may be perceived as disrespectful or overly flirtatious.
• Standing with hands on hips or arms crossed: Conveys arrogance or defensiveness.
• Pointing feet at someone or touching with feet: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, making this offensive.
• Prolonged direct eye contact: Can be viewed as aggressive or confrontational.

Additionally, excessive public displays of affection are frowned upon in Chinese society. ^{1, 2, 3}

References

• Top 10 Rude Gestures in China | Chinese Middle Finger

• The Guide to Chinese Hand Gestures | Mandarin Blueprint

• What Is Considered Rude in Chinese Culture? A Guide

• 7 Gestures to Avoid in China

• What is the meaning of these gestures in Chinese culture?

• what are some gestures or behaviors that are considered normal or acceptable in other countries but are disrespectful or have different meanings in china?

• Body Gestures in China (watch before you go!)

• Do and Don’ts in China — A Guide to Chinese Etiquette

• Ask Uncle Wang

• 20+ Chinese Curse Words And Meanings Explained [2025]

• Taboos in Chinese Culture: What Not to Do When Visiting China

• The Chinese Middle Finger in Chinese Hand Gesture-WuKong Blog

• The Chinese Middle Finger

• Gestures: Do’s and Don’ts - a Chinese perspective

• Four Gestures in China to Avoid

• Obscene gesture

• Chinese Etiquette Rules: The Do’s and Don’ts

• How to Express Numbers

• 8 Gestures to AVOID in Asia | OTGW

• Chinese number gestures