Romanian communication extends beyond spoken words, relying heavily on gestures that convey meaning with precision, often reflecting cultural attitudes, humour, or even historical influences. While some gestures may appear universal, their interpretations can differ significantly, leading to misunderstandings if taken at face value. This guide examines the most common Romanian gestures, their hidden meanings, and the contexts in which they are used.
The Head Nod and Shake: Not What You Think
In many cultures, a nod signifies agreement, while a shake indicates refusal, but in Romania, the distinction is not always so clear. A single, sharp nod upwards - often accompanied by raised eyebrows - can mean “yes”, whereas a repeated nod, particularly when slower, may express doubt or reluctant agreement. Conversely, a side-to-side head shake, especially when paired with a click of the tongue, can imply disapproval or frustration rather than outright denial.
Da (nod)
/da/“Yes”
Hand Gestures: From Greetings to Insults
Romanian hand gestures are particularly expressive, with some carrying meanings that might surprise outsiders. The “little horns” gesture - formed by extending the index and little finger while holding the others down - is not, as in some cultures, a rock-and-roll symbol, but rather a protective sign against the evil eye, often used when discussing good fortune to ward off jinxes. Meanwhile, tapping the side of the nose with a forefinger can indicate secrecy or that something is being kept confidential, though it may also imply suspicion.
- The “mămăligă” gesture - rubbing the thumb and fingers together as if crumbling polenta - can signify something being of poor quality or not worth consideration.
- A hand flick under the chin (palm down, fingers brushing upwards) is a dismissive gesture, akin to saying “I don’t care” or “get lost.”
The Romanian Shrug: More Than Indifference
The Romanian shrug is an art form in itself, often involving raised shoulders, upturned palms, and a slight tilt of the head. While it may resemble the universal gesture for “I don’t know,” in Romania, it frequently carries additional nuance - resignation, mild exasperation, or even a silent commentary on the absurdity of a situation. When combined with a sharp exhale, it can serve as a non-verbal substitute for phrases like “what can you do?” or “that’s just how it is.”
Eyes and Mouth: The Subtle Signals
Romanians frequently use eye movements and lip gestures to communicate silently. A quick roll of the eyes, especially when paired with a slight smirk, often indicates scepticism or playful disbelief. Pursed lips, on the other hand, can signal disapproval or withheld opinion, while a sudden widening of the eyes - akin to a brief, exaggerated stare - might express surprise or a silent challenge, particularly in heated discussions.
Another notable expression is the “țuc” - a sharp, clicking sound made with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, often accompanied by a brief upward nod. This can mean anything from mild reproach (“you shouldn’t have done that”) to a wordless prompt to hurry up.
Gestures in Social and Professional Settings
In formal or professional environments, Romanians tend to moderate their gestures, though some still slip through. A hand placed lightly over the heart during introductions can signal sincerity, while excessive hand movements during conversation might be perceived as overly emotional or unprofessional. Conversely, in informal gatherings, gestures become more pronounced, with laughter, emphatic hand waves, and even playful shoves among friends being common.
For those learning Romanian, observing these non-verbal cues can provide deeper insight into interactions. If you’re interested in further cultural nuances, consider reading our guide on 7 Timeless Romanian Proverbs and Their Life Lessons, which complements this topic well.
A Note on Regional Variations
Gestures can vary by region, with some being more prevalent in Transylvania, Moldova, or Wallachia. For instance, in rural areas, older generations may use more traditional signs, such as touching wood to avoid bad luck, while urban youth might adopt international gestures (like thumbs-up) with local twists. When in doubt, mirroring the gestures of those around you - or simply asking - can prevent misunderstandings.
