Understanding Spanish Social Cues: A Guide to Gestures and Personal Space
Learning how Spaniards use touch, proximity and hand signals can spare visitors awkward moments abroad. Actions that seem harmless to Americans may carry very different meanings in Spain, while Spaniards often display warmer physical closeness with one another than Americans typically do. Familiarity with these habits can ease the adjustment process before you even land.
By Parker Rivera
People in Spanish cultures tend to demonstrate more affection than Americans.
Before setting off for another country, learning its cultural quirks—particularly those involving unspoken signals—can help you sidestep uncomfortable moments. Gestures that pass unnoticed in the United States, for instance, might insult someone in Spain. Conversely, Spaniards generally express warmth toward one another more openly than Americans tend to. Getting to know these patterns ahead of time can also make the transition smoother once you arrive.
Showing Warmth
Traditionally, Spaniards display strong affection toward relatives and friends. They greet each other with embraces or by touching cheeks while making kissing sounds. Even men who are friends typically hug when they meet. While conversing, Spaniards also touch each other often and usually keep less distance than Americans do. A first-time meeting traditionally begins with a handshake. Sometimes men shake using both hands, resting the left hand on the other person's forearm.
Reading the Body
Eye contact is highly valued in Spain. This culture depends a great deal on physical signals as well. People commonly speak at the same time as others, gesturing broadly with their hands to emphasize a point or shaping their faces to mirror what they think. Cutting in on someone demonstrates engagement with what that person is saying. When you converse in Spain, your posture and facial expressions will communicate your meaning just as much—and perhaps more—than your actual words. Spaniards also pay close attention to how others carry themselves. In some settings, particularly during business meetings, a Spaniard may keep his opinion to himself verbally. Even so, his nonverbal signals will make his message clear.
Gestures to Steer Clear Of
In the United States, a person can signal "come here" by extending the index finger and drawing it back toward themselves. In Spain, though, that same motion has sexual connotations. Use your entire hand to wave instead. Visitors should also refrain from pointing, since many cultures view it as impolite. Spaniards likewise find it rude when someone throws an object to another person. If you need to pass along a pen, for example, think about walking over to hand it to them directly. Being aware of the "thief" signal can spare you trouble as well. When someone spots a pickpocket, she will stretch out her hand and then bring each finger to her palm, one after another.
