Without speaking a word of Italian, you can explore Italy. You're ready to conquer Il Bel Paese armed with just an outgoing personality, a genuine smile, and Italian hand gestures. Or, are you?
Still, before you go, you are better off learning Italian. But utilize these Italian hand signals to help you.
Un momento!
You can aptly translate this as "One moment, please." You can do this by pointing your index finger upwards, which basically looks like the number one. You can also use this hand signal to convey "May I speak, please?", which will then require that you study Italian.
Ho fame
This translates to "I am hungry." Hit your stomach with the side of your flat hand to convey an obvious plea to your hosts to feed you. If you're tired of pizza and pasta, learn Italian to know the difference between pollo and polipo. You'll also be able to understand Italian food better and avoid allergies.
Ehi tu, vieni qui
This is a hand gesture you will do well to use with caution. It translates to "Hey! Come here, you!", which can look either obnoxious or sexually inviting. Most Americans apply a similar come hither signal. You'll be better off learning to say "Prego, potete aiutarli?" when you want someone to come and assist you.
Silenzio
Similar to its universal counterpart, the Italian "silence" signal is made by pressing your index finger to your lips. But there's a difference between the hand gesture and effectively communicating why you want silence. This proves that you still need to study Italian!
Idea!
Put your hand on your head and look happy, and you've successfully emphasized that you have an idea. When you tell them about this idea, however, learning Italian will come in handy.
Perfetto
This is achieved with the thumb and index fingers making a circle similar to the American gesture for "okay." This is utilized to praise someone - very useful if you cannot speak Italian.
Scusi, devo andare al bagno
If you want to go to the rest room, hold up your index and middle fingers and put on a pained expression. This is important if you require frequent bathroom trips.
Indeed, Italian hand signals are sheer poetry. Learning Italian is still handy, though, to communicate with the locals and read Italian street signs. You can opt to get the best of both worlds.
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