# data[].attributes.body
Affection is a common nonverbal way of communicating in Spain. Affection is shown greatly between family members and generally when greeting a family member you give them hugs or touching cheeks while making kissing noises. Spanish people typically stand closer to each other and touch each other more in conversation. This is much different than affection in the United States because in the U.S. people typically keep their distance while in conversation and generally do not touch each other unless saying good bye.

# data[].attributes.body
n everyday life, non-verbal communication can be described as a way of communication without words. It includes body language, eye contact, and touch. 
In Queensland, they cover their mouth when they yawn, and is used along with the phrase "Excuse me." Next, since Australians have a great love and appreciation for sports, they very value good sportsmanship, including any sportsmanlike gestures. For example: congratulating a team for their good performance or acting as a "good loser" are two expressions that are highly respected by Australians. Other than that, if an Australian man wants to fight in a bar, he or she needs to finish his or her beer, turn the empty glass over, and place it "squarely" on the bar. 
However, Australian men do not show emotions often because they will be labeled as "unmanly" if too much physical emotion is shown. Furthermore, if a man wants to express feelings or friendship to a woman, winking is not the way to do so as winking at a woman is considered inappropriate and improper. But most commonly, Australians consider a "thumbs up" a rude gesture.

# data[].attributes.body
Explanation : In Thailand, likewise with our country, the elder should always be respected than the younger.  This can be seen in a common action in Thailand which is called wai. The action wai is used in general. The younger person greets first  by placing the palms together at chest level and bowing slightly. If someone wai to you, it is polite to wai back. Often people misinterpreted the word sawa dee kap/kaa as a greeting sign for Buddhist in Thailand. This word is normally spoken along with wai. It is a fact that a small number of Siamese are Muslims in Thailand. And yes, they would do exactly the same thing in formal occasion.

# data[].attributes.body
Something that evokes a breach of good manners is called a taboo

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
County: Japan

Japanese takes very serious about politeness in their culture. Especially in communication. They use a lot of body languages in their communication because silence is a very high aspect of politeness in their culture. 

1. Eye contacts and posture
Not like in most western country. In Japan ,eye contact is aggression.
Direct eye contact to the people who talk to you is rude or intrusive. Do no stare directly into the eyes during conversation. They will look away or stop talking to you.Body posture during the conversation also a sensitive thing. Make sure your body are straight when you are standing or seating.Do not lean against wall like a lazy person or outspreading your arms or legs because it eats spaces.
 
2.Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
In Japan, hand signature in counting is opposite from the normal way
for example when you count one until four. Four fingers will represents one. While one fingers will represents four. This oppositions also occur when you want to call someone to come to you.  For a normal people i will look like "go away" but in Japan, it is "come here". It is very confusing.

3.Angry sign
It is quite funny matter when someone put both of their index finger on their head but not in Japan. Because it shows anger.By doing like that , they are picturing "oni" which is devil in japan languages.4.Bowing
In Japan, bowing is a very polite thing to do because it shows respect toward each other. If someone bowed to you. You need to bow with the same degree of their bow

# data[].attributes.body
voiding eye-to-eye contact shows respect.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
See all the wonderful things Amreet Kaur Jageer Singh has made

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
See all the wonderful things Amreet Kaur Jageer Singh has made

# data[].attributes.body
Region: South America
 
Country : Brazil
 
Non verbal communication is Nonverbal Communication is a language without words, sometimes called body language. It comprises a diversity of culturally derived behavioral displays.
 
1. Artifacts are the result of conscious management of general appearance, dress and physical surroundings.
- Physical appearance and physical surroundings are important and provide visual cues as to status and tone of conversations.For example, dressing in black is usually a sign of mourning.
2. Chronomics refers to the study of nonverbal communication that relates to attitudes about time management.
- Relaxed attitude towards time.Brazilian people they do not care about time n they will spend it as they wish.Tardiness and/or a last minute change of plans are common. (Things will get done.)
3. Haptics refers to the study of touching during conversation such as handshakes, embracing, hugging, patting and kissing.
- Touching is common. Kissing on both cheeks is common among family members, relatives, friends and acquaintances.Handshaking, kissing, hugging, patting, embracing and holdings hands are common forms of greeting.
4. Kinesics refers to the study of body language and gestures such as head nodding, hand gestures and signals, and eye-to-eye contact.
- Eye Contact: Avoiding eye-to-eye contact shows respect.
- Greetings: Students usually greet teachers with a kiss on both cheeks. Young children may address the teacher as, “Tia” (Aunt).”
5. Proxemics refers to the study of personal and physical space. Personal space refers to the distance people allow between themselves and others in order to feel comfortable. Physical space refers to how people will arrange furniture and other artifacts as a way of reinforcing personal space.
- Personal space and physical space are not emphasized. For example, a person will stand less than a foot away from the other when conversing.It is considered rude if one steps back. Physical closeness as well as occasional bumping of another person is common.
6. Silence and time refers to the study of nonverbal communication cues relating to the waiting time people will allow between utterances in speech or conversation.
- Taking turns to speak is not the rule. People will interrupt a conversation and will speak simultaneously.It is acceptable to be silent for longer periods when two or more people are together.

# data[].attributes.body
against alcohol. If we are invited to someone’s home, flowers for the host are usually appreciated the world over. However, in much of Europe and China, chrysanthemums are associated with funerals, and red flowers have a strong romantic connotation. These should be avoided. 

To many Chinese people, a fan is a forbidden present because it has the identical sound as “separation.” If a person gives a fan to his or her friend, their friendship will stop or diminish from that time. Therefore, it has become a phonologically linked taboo to give friends a fan in Chinese society but for Korean, they didn't think the same with Chinese because of different phonologically-linked taboos. Chinese and Koreans might have been sharing more animal-linked taboos than either shares with Americans. 



MISS AMREET KAUR A/P JAGEER SINGH
MISS AMREET KAUR A/P JAGEER SINGH
Region: Asia
Countries: List of countries.....
Explanation:.....

*You may add any attachment to support your explanation.

# data[].attributes.body
against alcohol. If we are invited to someone’s home, flowers for the host are usually appreciated the world over. However, in much of Europe and China, chrysanthemums are associated with funerals, and red flowers have a strong romantic connotation. These should be avoided. 

To many Chinese people, a fan is a forbidden present because it has the identical sound as “separation.” If a person gives a fan to his or her friend, their friendship will stop or diminish from that time. Therefore, it has become a phonologically linked taboo to give friends a fan in Chinese society but for Korean, they didn't think the same with Chinese because of different phonologically-linked taboos. Chinese and Koreans might have been sharing more animal-linked taboos than either shares with Americans. 



MISS AMREET KAUR A/P JAGEER SINGH
MISS AMREET KAUR A/P JAGEER SINGH
Region: Asia
Countries: List of countries.....
Explanation:.....

*You may add any attachment to support your explanation.

# data[].attributes.body
o, they ought to hold fast to the unobtrusive clothing standard. Arms ought to be secured to beneath the elbow if conceivable and jeans ought to go underneath the knee. It is energized that ladies wear skirts rather than jeans too. Moroccan perspective is overwhelmingly a religious perspective, which is to say that there is no division between holy things and mainstream things. As an aftereffect of this, even the way the general population dress is blessed and hallowed to them. These things together demonstrate that individuals from Morocco esteem religion and customary family values. 

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
County: Japan

Japanese takes very serious about politeness in their culture. Especially in communication. They use a lot of body languages in their communication because silence is a very high aspect of politeness in their culture.

1. Eye contacts and posture
Not like in most western country. In Japan ,eye contact is aggression.
Direct eye contact to the people who talk to you is rude or intrusive. Do no stare directly into the eyes during conversation. They will look away or stop talking to you.Body posture during the conversation also a sensitive thing. Make sure your body are straight when you are standing or seating.Do not lean against wall like a lazy person or outspreading your arms or legs because it eats spaces.

2.Counting backwards and beckoning someone to go away
In Japan, hand signature in counting is opposite from the normal way
for example when you count one until four. Four fingers will represents one. While one fingers will represents four. This oppositions also occur when you want to call someone to come to you.  For a normal people i will look like "go away" but in Japan, it is "come here". It is very confusing.

3.Angry sign
It is quite funny matter when someone put both of their index finger on their head but not in Japan. Because it shows anger.By doing like that , they are picturing "oni" which is devil in japan languages.4.Bowing
In Japan, bowing is a very polite thing to do because it shows respect toward each other. If someone bowed to you. You need to bow with the same degree of their bow

# data[].attributes.body
Region: South America
Country: Brazil

Body language in Brazil

When conversing, good eye contact is important. To not do so is considered impolite.

In a marketplace, if a vendor holds his hand out, fingers extended and flips the thumb back and forth it merely means, ‘There isn’t any left; I don’t have any more.’

A good, warm handshake is the traditional greeting in Brazil. However, the Brazilians show affection easily.

People in Brazil will also shake hands when arriving and departing. There may also be a touching of the forearm or elbow, and often a pat on the back.

If you are conducting business, be certain to bring a plentiful supply of business cards because these are always exchanged. Also, during business meetings expect to be served (often) small cups of very strong coffee.

Since this is more of a touching society, people stand close together when conversing or when standing in lines.

To add emphasis to a statement, a Brazilian may snap the fingers while whipping the hand down own and out.

To express appreciation, a Brazilian may appear to pinch his earlobe between thumb and forefinger. For example, if you’ve enjoyed a meal this gesture may be used. Among Brazilians, to dramatize it even further, they will reach behind the head and grasp the opposite earlobe.

You may think they are blowing you a kiss, but when Brazilians bring their hand towards their mouths and kiss the tips of their fingers, then expand the fingers in an outward motion, it merely means that – probably the meal – was delicious.

Body language in Brazil “figa”

When carrying any article along the streets-a pair of shoes, a bottle, a box of candy-it is customary to have it wrapped in a bag or some paper.

There are many common friendly gestures in Brazil. One is the thumbs up gesture, which is also popular in America. In Brazil it is meant to mean “good” or “positive.”

When two people are close to each other, they will show it by rubbing two index fingers together.

Making a hand movement that traces an imaginary horizontal line right above the line of their eyes means that person is fed up or does not have any more patience.

Sometimes nonverbal communication can be very different than what is expected in other countries. One example is the “O.K.” symbol one can make with their hands. It is regarded as just meaning “O.K.” in the American culture. In Brazil however, this is seen as a very obscene gesture. It is equivalent to giving the middle finger in America. This is seen as one of the rudest gestures you can make in Brazil and should always be avoided.

Another obscene hand gesture is called the “corna” which historically means “your wife is cheating on you.” It is popular in Brazil and is often used when disagreeing with a football referee and it looks just like the “rock on” american gesture.

One gesture that is also used is one to say “screw you.” It s consists of making a fist with one hand and slapping it on top of the other hand once or twice. It is used commonly around Brazilian friends but can be rude if used any other time.

Same as in Argentina, a close friendship or an incipient relationship is indicated by rubbing the two index fingers together.

A very unique body language in Brazil is the “figa”, represented by inserting the thumb between the middle and index finger. This gesture is supposed to keep away pain, suffering and envy and it is an amulet that protects against the “evil-eye.”

The “dar uma banana” or “give a banana” gesture in Brazil is an extremely offensive and rude gesture and it consists of bending the right arm at the elbow with the hand as a fist while making a chopping movement with the left arm towards the right elbow as in a forearm jerk. This gesture is also used on other countries of Latin America, in France and Italy with different names, of course. It is the equivalent of giving someone the finger.

Example:

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Country: Malaysia

The People

Malays are proud of their country, their ancestral background and their economic success. Ethnic tensions exist between Malays (60%) and Chinese (31%) over preferential quotas. Chinese feel these policies make them second-class citizens; Malays support these policies, which they feel are their only way to overcome traditional dominance. The Chinese dominate the business community and live in urban areas, while ethnic Malays generally inhabit rural areas.
Body Language

Never touch anyone on the top of the head (home of the soul), especially a child. Avoid touching anyone of the opposite sex. Affection is not shown in public.

Use your right hand to eat, pass things and touch people. Do not pass objects with your left hand. Do not move objects with your feet or point at another person with your foot.

Giving a slight bow when leaving, entering or passing by people means, "excuse me."

A smile or laugh could mean surprise, anger, shock, embarrassment or happiness.

It is impolite to beckon adults.

Single fingers are not used for gesturing.

Hitting your fist into a cupped hand is obscene.

Hands in pockets signify anger.

Dining and Entertainment

Entertaining is an important part of doing business. Most business entertaining is done in restaurants.

Most important meetings are followed with lunch or dinner. Be sure to reciprocate any dinner with a dinner of equal value.

Spouses may be invited to dinner when the meal will not involve business discussions. Do not bring spouses to a business lunch.

Drinks are offered and accepted with both hands. Drinks are not served before dinner.

Malays use only their right hand to eat, pass, touch or handle anything. Never use your left hand to eat.

Food is cut in bite size pieces, making a knife unnecessary. Hold the spoon in your right hand and the fork in your left hand. Push your food onto the spoon with the fork and eat from the spoon. When finished, put the fork and the spoon on your plate.

Allow the host to order all dishes in a restaurant.

Dress

For business, men should wear pants and white shirts, with ties for executives. Conservative suits should be worn when meeting with government officials. You may be more comfortable wearing a jacket to a first meeting.

Women should wear sleeved blouses with skirts or pants.

Yellow is reserved for royalty.

Especially for Women

Women are generally accepted in business, where they hold many influential positions.

It is perfectly acceptable for a woman to invite a Malaysian businessman to dinner. She may or may not invite his wife.

Women may dine alone in hotel restaurants or bars.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: South America

Country : Brazil

Non verbal communication is Nonverbal Communication is a language without words, sometimes called body language. It comprises a diversity of culturally derived behavioral displays.

1. Artifacts are the result of conscious management of general appearance, dress and physical surroundings.

- Physical appearance and physical surroundings are important and provide visual cues as to status and tone of conversations.For example, dressing in black is usually a sign of mourning.

2. Chronomics refers to the study of nonverbal communication that relates to attitudes about time management.

- Relaxed attitude towards time.Brazilian people they do not care about time n they will spend it as they wish.Tardiness and/or a last minute change of plans are common. (Things will get done.)

3. Haptics refers to the study of touching during conversation such as handshakes, embracing, hugging, patting and kissing.

- Touching is common. Kissing on both cheeks is common among family members, relatives, friends and acquaintances.Handshaking, kissing, hugging, patting, embracing and holdings hands are common forms of greeting.

4. Kinesics refers to the study of body language and gestures such as head nodding, hand gestures and signals, and eye-to-eye contact.

- Eye Contact: Avoiding eye-to-eye contact shows respect.

- Greetings: Students usually greet teachers with a kiss on both cheeks. Young children may address the teacher as, “Tia” (Aunt).”

5. Proxemics refers to the study of personal and physical space. Personal space refers to the distance people allow between themselves and others in order to feel comfortable. Physical space refers to how people will arrange furniture and other artifacts as a way of reinforcing personal space.

- Personal space and physical space are not emphasized. For example, a person will stand less than a foot away from the other when conversing.It is considered rude if one steps back. Physical closeness as well as occasional bumping of another person is common.

6. Silence and time refers to the study of nonverbal communication cues relating to the waiting time people will allow between utterances in speech or conversation.

- Taking turns to speak is not the rule. People will interrupt a conversation and will speak simultaneously.It is acceptable to be silent for longer periods when two or more people are together.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Germany

There are a number of non-verbal communications that need to be considered when doing business with a German.

It is an obscene gesture to extend a middle finger to someone, as is pointing the index finger at one’s temple especially while driving.

German behaviour in public is generally reserved and formal. Thus, waving and shouting at a person who is far away may attract negative attention.

When answering a phone call, first introduce yourself by saying your name. It is impolite if you don't give your name even if you use other polite greetings such as "hello" or "good morning".

It is impolite to cross your arm over people who are shaking hands.

It is rude to chew gum in business environments.

Talking while your hands are in your pockets is also considered impolite.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Africa

Country: Kenya

Explanation:

Understanding the culture and etiquette of the country is really important to show that we are appreciating their culture and to avoid from embarrassing ourselves or creating any misunderstanding.

In Kenya, there are several taboos that we should avoid from doing.

The first one is avoid shaking hand, eating or giving something by using left hand as this hand is only used for unhygienic act. It is considered rude if we do so.

Next, never point with our finger because it is an obscene gesture. Pointing finger may also mean that we are looking for a confrontation.

Last but not least, beckoning must be done only with palm down. Never do it with palm up because it conveys a dismissive gesture.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Country: Japan
Western communication relies heavily on words, but Japanese communication relies less on verbal communication but heavily relise in non-verbal communication. When it comes to Japenese body language, it is completely different with the Western body language.  Most of western country use handshake as a greeting, but Japenese use to bow to other as a greeting. Higher respect is determined by the lower and the longer the duration of the bow.
In Malaysia we often make an eye contact to show interest to the people who are talking, but an eye contact in Japan is consider as rude for the Japanese. Eye contact is a sign of aggression and can bring uncomfortableness to them. When speaking to Japanese, a brief eye contact is made to give signal to the individual then one have to maintain an appropriate eye level by maintaining the eye level at the individual's neck.
Not standing upright is another impolite behaviour. This is includes leaning against a wall when someone is talking to you. Putting  hands in pocket is considered as laziness and arrogance by Japenese.
In conclusion, there is so many do's and dont's in non-verbal commucation in Japan that is totaly different from Western culture.   One have to be very wise with their body language while communicting with  Japanese when they on a trip or in a business trip.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Ukraine
Explanation: An insight on Ukraines way of non verbal communication that might seem taboo to us

At first Ukrainian people may be quiet and reserved. First impression towards Ukrainians usually are: they are more protective, avoid eye contact, possess a sense of suspicion and caution. Smiles from enthusiastic tourists may puzzle more tradition bound Ukrainians.
Handshake
Men in Ukraine will always shake hands when they greet for the first time during the day. However, it is taboo to shake hands with your gloves on. Ukraine is one of the many countries where this handshake tradition is rigorously upheld.
In Ukraine it is not a custom to shake hands with a woman. Kissing her hand will make you very gallant

Hugs
Close friends and relatives receive cheek kisses and hugs upon greeting and farewell. A hand wave and verbal word takes place in more informal settings. Sensitivity and grace, a “warmth of heart,” is a national trait. Body distance when talking may be  closer than any other countries.

Gestures
Impolite gestures:
OK Sign-thumb and forefinger touching and creating a circle shape, this is considered to be vulgar
Pointing index finger-Though people may point this way, some consider it uncultured. But if you must point, it's better to use your entire hand instead of your finger.
Hands in pockets/folded across chest- Speaking to a superior or the elderly in this posture comes across as rude.
Gum- Chewing gum in the presence of superiors or elderly is impolite.
Spread or crossed legs- In public, when sitting, avoid resting one ankle on the other or spreading your legs in a wide fashion.

Positive Gestures
“Thumbs up” Often means approval
Eye contact- Use frequently in conversations yet avoid a constant, “boring down” on the person you talk with
“Fig” (clenched fist with thumb between index and middle finger knuckles) Often this sign means “nothing” or “you will get nothing.” · Chivalry- Many Ukrainian women expect men to open doors and help carry heavy items.

# data[].attributes.headline
Muhammad Afiq Nor Izzat Bin Mohd Ibrisam

# data[].attributes.subject
Muhammad Afiq Nor Izzat Bin Mohd Ibrisam

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Asia
Country : Vietnam
Explanation :
“In the Vietnamese culture, manner of the nonverbal gestures  describe how they feel about age and gender. They often emphasize their value  of respect and what they consider to be socially acceptable.” For example, Vietnamese people will avoid eye contact to show respect to older people, people with a higher status, and to the opposite sex. In the U.S., we are taught to always look someone in the eye if we are engaged in conversation. This shows respect and a sign they have our undivided attention. Crossing one’s arms is also a sign of respect in Vietnam. In America, this means one is angry or closed off to conversation.

Crossed arms mean different things in Vietnamese and American culture.

Pointing with one’s finger should never be done in Vietnam. This is disrespectful and condescending. Also, the head should never be touched by other people. It is viewed as the most important part of the body.

Regarding personal space, Vietnam and the U.S. are actually pretty similar. One of my sources said that an arms length is usually preferred between people in Vietnam. It is pretty similar here in America. People don’t like others invading their personal space. It creates an awkward mood if someone is standing too close while conversing.

If I were a businessman in Vietnam, I would definitely have to learn how to behave properly. Respect seems to be one of the most important things in Vietnam, so it would be essential for me to show respect to other workers and bosses.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country : Portugal
Explanation : Nonverbal Communication is a language without words, sometimes called body language. It comprises a diversity of culturally derived behavioral displays such as artifacts,chronomics, haptics, kinesics, proxemics, andsilence/time.

Artifacts are the result of conscious management of general appearance, dress and physical surroundings.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Physical appearance and physical surroundings are important and provide visual cues as to status and tone of conversations.For example, formal as opposed to informal occasions will require different attire and types of venues.Note: The Portuguese Culture is generally more formal in dress and appearance (e.g. children may be expected to observe a period of mourning evidenced by wearing black for several months) | Physical appearance and physical surroundings are important and provide visual cues as to status and tone of conversations.For example, formal as opposed to informal occasions will require different attire and types of venues.

Chronomics refers to the study of nonverbal communication that relate to attitudes about time management.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Relaxed attitude towards time. (This does not reflect a relaxed attitude towards achievement). | Concern over how time is spent.
Tardiness and/or a last minute change of plans are acceptable. (e.g. things will get done in good time) | Punctuality is very important. (e.g. time is money)

Haptics refers to the study of touch such as handshakes, embracing, hugging, patting and kissing.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Touching is common. Kissing on both cheeks is common among family members, relatives, friends and acquaintances. | Touching is avoided. Kissing is reserved for family and intimates.
Handshaking, kissing, hugging, patting, embracing and holdings hands are common forms of greeting.
| A firm handshake is the most common form of greeting among non-relatives.

Kinesics refers to the study of body language and gestures such as head nodding, hand gestures and signals, and eye-to-eye contact.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Eye Contact:
Direct eye-to-eye contact by children is generally considered disrespectful.
| Eye Contact:
Children show respect through direct eye-to-eye contact.
Greetings:
Students usually greet teachers at the preschool and elementary level with a kiss on both cheeks. Young children may address the teacher as Senhor/a Professor/a (Teacher! Teacher!). This is considered respectful. At the secondary level, they call the teacher /stoura/ (phonetic spelling)
| Greetings:
Students greet teachers informally by saying, “Hi….” or more formally as Ms.___, Mrs.___, or Mr.___.

Proxemics refers to the study of personal and physical space. Personal space refers to the distance people allow between themselves and others in order to feel comfortable. Physical space refers to how people will arrange furniture and other artifacts as a way of reinforcing personal space.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Personal space and physical space are not emphasized. (e.g. a person will stand less than a foot away from the other when conversing. It is considered rude if one steps back) | Both personal space and physical space are emphasized. (e.g. people stand three feet from each other when conversing.)
Physical closeness as well as occasional touching of another person is common. | Americans expect a large personal space ‘bubble’ and regard infringement of one’s personal space as rude or threatening.

Silence and time refers to the study of nonverbal communication cues relating to the waiting time people will allow between utterances in a speech act.

Portuguese Culture | American Majority Culture
Taking turns to speak is not the rule. People will interrupt a conversation and many people will speak simultaneously. | Taking turns to speak is the rule. People will not interrupt or speak while others are speaking.
It is acceptable to be silent for longer periods when one or more people are together. | People become uncomfortable when there is a lull in the conversation.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Germany
Explanation: In Germany, using the signs of "Nazi salute", shout "Heil Hitler", or show swastikas or other symbols of The Third Reich is a criminal offense and punishable up to five years imprisonment.

Making a circular motion using the index finger while pointing to the side of one's head is a rude gesture indicating that someone is crazy or deranged

Don’t

Be late – everyone else will be on time.

Send a German friend lilies – they’re for funerals. Carnations symbolise mourning, too.

Dig into that Sauerkraut before your host says 'Guten Appetit' (good appetite).

Stroll in the bike lane. You’ll get bruised or yelled at (or both). It’s marked red for a reason.

Jaywalk. Nobody else does, and you might get fined.

Drink yourself into a stumbling fool. We know the beer goes down easy, but public drunkenness is frowned upon.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Australia
Country: Australia
Explanation: In Australia, non-verbal communication is very important and it plays a huge role in their daily life. For them, non-verbal communication is very important in building a good relationship, as well as retaining them.

For example, stand about an arms-length away from someone when speaking to face. Eye contact is a must, because it helps them to gauge sincerity and also trustworthiness. Furthermore, touching of the shoulder or arm is necessary,because it makes a point while speaking is acceptable.

Moreover, during business or formal events, people shake hands. Generally, women do not shake other women's hands. Meanwhile, among family or friends, a kiss on one or both cheeks between a man and a woman or two women is an acceptable form of greeting. Australians reserve hugs for close relation. For them, nicknames or insults between mates is considered a sign of friendship and acceptance.

Lastly, winking at women is considered rude or offensive. The "V-sign" or what we call the "Peace sign" as well as the "Thumbs-UP Sign" are considered vulgar gestures. It is not polite to sniff or blow your nose in public.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Country: Malaysia
Explanation: There are three major phyletic groupings in Malaysia, the Malays, the Chinese, and the Indians.There are also a number of other horde and gens of the native race in West and East Malaysia.

There are many types of non-verbal communication which including space and distance, physical contact, facial expressions, gestures and eye contact. Most of the Malaysians have the most common gestures and facial expression. They tend to avoid speaking in a loud voice and standing while being introduced to someone. They will look each other in the eyes while communicating.

For gestures of non-verbal communication, people would tend to make some hand movements that imply

some symbols such as lifting one of the fingers of the opposite hands, place softly or pointing softly and etc.

For personal appearance, people tend to find a way of grooming themselves. The traditional Malay greeting of 'Salam' resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, " I greet you from my heart". The visitor should requite the "Salam". "Salam" is not practiced by the rest of the community though, so a normal handshake will do.

Greeting gestures of MalaysThese are gestures of non-verbal communication that Malays would do to emphasize the contents for people to understand.

Greeting gestures of Chinese

Greeting gestures of Indians

Furthermore, most of the Malaysians rely on non-verbal communication which tends to be more subtle, indirect whereas they do making hints or implying at a point instead of making a direct statement. This allows the person showing demands and maintaining harmony in their relationship.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Countries: Thailand and Singapore

Explanation: It is always important to educate yourself on the local customs before traveling somewhere, out of respect. There is an English proverb "In Rome you must do like the Romans do". For the foreigners in Thailand, it is by no means necessary to fully adapt to Thai customs and traditions, but they should strive to know the main rules of taboo, to be observed when dealing with Thais. The Thai culture is shaped by Buddhism, who as the national religion presents a connecting element of all Thais. But to understand the everyday culture, it is also important to take into account the great importance of animism in the daily activities of the Thais. There are a lot of serious taboos in Thai culture that we should be aware of before we travel, so that we can avoid offending any locals who we meet along the way. There are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

First and foremost, we can’t disrespect the King or the Royal Family in anyway, whether verbally or in written communication. This is actually a violation of the Lese Majeste laws and can get us arrested. Secondly, we should be friendly and smile at the local people when we walk by. Thailand is known as the land of smiles and it is a wonderful and friendly place. Thirdly, we must stand-up whenever the national anthem is being played. For example, this will happen in the movie theater before the start of the film, or during a public event when a member of the Royal Family is present. Next, don’t deface any of the Thai money, because it has a picture of the King’s face on it. Moreover, we have to be respectful around images of Buddha. All images and sculptures of Buddha are considered to be sacred, so don’t pose with them, deface them or disrespect them in anyway. In addition, don’t wear our shoes into a temple where a Buddha statue is kept because it is not appropriate. We should take them off and leave them at the door, as there should already be a pile of shoes from others.

Besides, we need to speak quietly and act calm when visiting a temple. It is not the place to be running around or making jokes. Also, we can’t wear revealing clothing when visiting a temple, as it is very disrespectful. We should have our shoulders, legs and cleavage covered. If unsure, there are usually signs at the temple entrance showing what appropriate and inappropriate clothing entails. The most important things is don’t touch the Buddhist monks if we are a woman. They are forbidden to touch or be touched by a woman, or to directly accept anything from a woman. If a woman needs to give something to a monk, she must first give it to a man who will then give it to the monk. Then, do remember that the bottoms of the feet are considered offensive in Thai culture and that pointing the bottom of our foot at someone is very rude. Keep this in mind when sitting on the floor or lying down. Last but not least, don’t touch a Thai person’s head. The head is a sacred part of the body and touching it is a very uncomfortable violation of the person’s personal space. These are just a few important things that we will need to keep in mind when visiting Thailand.

In Singapore, it is quite differ from Thailand. Singaporean culture is an amalgamation of traditional cultures (Chinese, Malay and Indian) with some Western influences. It is still evolving, especially with the large influx of foreigners. There are some taboos in Singapore. First of all, we can’t cut queues. Singaporeans are obsessed with forming neat, orderly queues. We might not aggressively challenge people who cut queues, but it would definitely offend us. Secondly, we strictly can’t spit or littering. These actions are in fact against the law, and offenders can be fined up to $500. Next, don’t speaking loudly or behaving rowdily. We are a generally well-behaved bunch, and normally keep to ourselves or our group of friends. Being too noisy on public transport, or at middle and high end restaurants can be considered quite rude and would attract a lot of attention.

Besides, being racism is not allowed in Singapore. Singaporean society takes pride in its harmony, racial & religious, which has been achieved with consensus-building. We are reminded too of the fragility of this harmony, which racism could threaten. For instance there is some awkwardness when people question the under or overrepresentation of certain races in the military, law enforcement and emergency services. Singapore has many different cultures and religions. The Muslims and Hindus believe that the left hand is unclean. Consequently, eat only with your right hand, and avoid touching things with your left hand if you can use your right hand instead. Also, many Indians and Malays believe that the head is the “seat of the soul”, so don’t touch anyone’s head or face, even if stroking the hair of a child.Feet are also believed to be unclean, so don’t move or touch anything with your feet, and never cross your legs or feet so the sole of your shoe is pointing at someone.Among Indians, rocking the head from side to side actually signals agreement, although Westerners may interpret this gesture as meaning, “no.”

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asian
Country: China
Explanation: Chinese Emotion and Gestures.
China is one of the largest countries in the world, the birth place of ancient culture and civilization. In general, one may say that by influence of Confucius' philosophical thinking, the chinese have become more reserved or at least the gesture expressing emotions are comparatively less expressive. As the verbal language, the nonverbal register of gestures lasts for a long time, but in different historic times, there are different gesture. From a historical point of view we will distinguish between dead and contemporary gestures. This gesture categories are metaphorical because there may be archic gesturer which are still used somewhere in China, but in general we will try to pick up only gestures which are out of use today.
Nonverbal language includes not only gestures which part of the body languge but also mimics which are facial expressions. In a sense, mimics are also body expression since the face is a part of the body but they have a special name because they are especially important for, so called, face-to-face communication (in fact there is no expression like "body-to-body communication" and if there is it will mean something specific, such as making love or fighting). However basic this distinction is, here we are not going to observe facial expression especially, but they will be illustrated and discussed in relation to each gestures.

# data[].attributes.headline
Nurul Qudrul Nada binti Noor Azrulhisham

# data[].attributes.subject
Nurul Qudrul Nada binti Noor Azrulhisham

# data[].attributes.body
Region : North Africa
County : Morocco
Explanation:
Nonverbal communications, greetings and taboos in Morocco.
Usually the men in Morocco "shake hands when welcoming each other and for the most part kiss once on every cheek." When first being acquainted with a woman, you ought to hold up to check whether she will shake your hand, on the off chance that she doesn't offer you her hand, you ought to bow or gesture to show regard. Welcoming each other in the suitable way demonstrates that they comprehend face esteem and respecting each other's face out in the open

1) Greetings in Morocco

Greetings in Morocco are essential in that you should indicate appreciation to social stations. Eye contact in Morocco is fundamental when talking with men that are of equivalent significance. Since Morocco is a nation that has genuinely strict level progressive systems, a man of less significance may not meet the eyes of a man that is higher in rank than they are. Keeping eye contact is an indication of appreciation, while turning away may imply that you don't concur with the speaker. With ladies anyway, you should dependably demonstrate regard for their sex. Thus, if a lady won't meet your look, it is respectful to bring down your eyes too. At the end of the day, this equitable demonstrates the amount Moroccans esteem regard and face esteem in their connections.

2) High Context in Morocco

Individuals from Morocco use hand signals to pass on their importance. Being a high connection society, they depend on the significance behind the words; and in addition, facial and hand expressions to express a great part of the importance of a message. They may likewise depend on nonverbal correspondence, for example, paralanguage, body developments, signals, and images to pass on their message.

3 )Taboos

Eating amid Ramadan out in the open is viewed as impolite since whatever remains of the nation is fasting. Alongside the religious custom of fasting amid Ramadan, men and ladies who are particularly religious don't have any physical contact. Once more, customary religious qualities are emphatically clear in the way Moroccan individuals treat each other. Uncovering apparel is disapproved of by Moroccans on the grounds that the men and ladies there normally cover the greater part of their bodies as per the Muslim convention. It ought to be noticed, that if a man were to go to Morocco, they ought to hold fast to the unobtrusive clothing standard. Arms ought to be secured to beneath the elbow if conceivable and jeans ought to go underneath the knee. It is energized that ladies wear skirts rather than jeans too. Moroccan perspective is overwhelmingly a religious perspective, which is to say that there is no division between holy things and mainstream things. As an aftereffect of this, even the way the general population dress is blessed and hallowed to them. These things together demonstrate that individuals from Morocco esteem religion and customary family values.

One final thing in regards to sustenance, as indicated by suite101.com, "eat nourishment with the right hand, as the left is implied for individual cleanliness!" Communal nourishment is served constantly, demonstrating how the Moroccans esteem family and that they are a collectivistic society.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Asia
Country : India
Explanation:
The non-verbal issues in india based on their
i.Appearance and Dress
ii. Kinesics
iii. Haptics

Like any particular society with a rich history, India has numerous nonverbal characteristics that it can call its own. Keeping in mind the end goal to completely comprehend the extension and profundity of any society's nonverbal correspondence, you should be a part of that society. As western pariahs taking a gander at Indian society, there is no real way to totally comprehend the significance of each bit of nonverbal correspondence.

- Appearance and Dress
Dress in India fluctuates in style as per local area; be that as it may, the most well-known men clothing is the dhoti. This is a long bit of white cotton wrapped around the waist for a large portion of its length and after that drawn between the legs and tucked into the waist at the back. Turbans or some type of crown are regular in northern India. The style of the turban regularly recognizes the wearer as an individual from a specific group or as being from a specific locale or town. The kurta, a long tunic-like shirt, and the pajama, free loose trousers are likewise usually worn, particularly in urban territories. It is additionally respectful to remove one's shoes before entering an Indian home.

Ladies ordinarily wear the sari, a length of cotton or silk material wrapped around the waist, with one end left free and tossed over the right shoulder. The choli, a tight bodice that leaves the midriff uncovered, is worn under the sari. . In some other provincial territories, ladies don't wear the bodice, utilizing only the end of the sari to cover their abdominal area.

It is essential to comprehend the correct dress of a specific culture so an individual is not coldhearted to their new surroundings.

- Kinesics-Body dialect and development
Indians, similar to all societies have particular signals and hand developments that mean distinctive things. There are two sorts of motions; artists, which go with words, and symbols, which have a significance all their own particular since they aren't utilized with any words or sounds. One kind of motion is a 'battle or flight' signal. In India, a specific battle or flight signal is the point at which you slide one hand over your wrist, demonstrating the utilization of a customary Hindu lady's armlet called a bangle.
The conventional type of welcome is the namaste, where the hands are conveniently collapsed together in a petition like motion. Handshakes are turning out to be more regular, however ladies ordinarily abstain from physical contact.

Indians have an inquisitive non-verbal method for concurring with you. They shake their heads from side to side when they signify "yes," so be cautious how you translate their signs. Indians are inconceivably affable, and they are effectively annoyed if can't. For instance, it is not extraordinary for an Indian to welcome somebody in from off the road in which they will treat their visitor with tea or espresso. In like manner, never get or give anything with your left hand.

Haptics-Touch
In India, touching some person is viewed as an uncommon demonstration. Just somebody inside the same standing framework or family may touch you warmly. The religious noteworthiness of touch is high in light of the fact that there is a great deal of touching required with Hindu stately acts. Touching some person speaks to a bond with them and is saved for family events.
Touching some individual on the head is viewed as an affront. This is particularly valid in the event that this individual is a nonnative or some person who is remote to the station framework or family.
Feet are viewed as grimy and the most noticeably awful part around a man. In the event that you touch some person with your feet then you have extremely offended them.. Touching somebody's feet resemble licking the ground.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Sweden
Explanation:
The non-verbal component refers to the message we send through our body language
Non-verbal: our body language

“Mind your space” could be a Swedish motto. While minding hers, a Swede would expect you to mind yours. Maintain a distance of two arm-lengths between you and the person with whom you are conversing. I have seen so many Swedes crawl backwards being forced by their advancing foreign conversation partners! Embassy receptions provide a lot of occasions for such observations.

“Minding your space” also applies to gesticulating. Swedes keep their body language and hand gestures to a minimum, rather than relying on nonverbal forms of communication. You see, waving with limbs (and by the way, talking too loud) is in a way “taking somebody else’s space without asking for permission”.

With the exception of the handshake, Swedes do not like physical contact with anyone. Do not back slap, embrace, or touch a Swede unless you know him well enough to know that he does not mind.

Avoid having your hands in your pockets as you talk to someone – it can be looked at as “a bit arrogant”, especially by the elderly. Younger people though are not likely to judge you harshly for doing so.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Europe
Country : Greece
Explanation : Within the Greece society, there are an abundance of cultural and social rules of nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication includes the use of personal space, how the environment and buildings are designed, physical arrangement of rooms, clothing, artifacts, body movements, eye contact, etc. It was surprising to find how different communication nonverbally can be in varying cultures.

Nonverbal communication is very strong within the Greek society. For example, eye contact. They stand much closer to each other when in conversation and have much stronger eye contact than other cultures. A lack of strong eye contact or too far of a distance between one another  can been seen as rude and unfriendly.

There are few gestures and facial expressions that have different meanings in Greece. For example, when they say no they tip their head back, resembling a nod meaning yes and a friendly wave with your palm showing is a serious insult to the people of Greece. Showing the "OK" sign also means insult to them.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Asia
Country : Thailand
Explanation : In Thailand, likewise with our country, the elder should always be respected than the younger.  This can be seen in a common action in Thailand which is called wai. The action wai is used in general. The younger person greets first  by placing the palms together at chest level and bowing slightly. If someone wai to you, it is polite to wai back. Often people misinterpreted the word sawa dee kap/kaa as a greeting sign for Buddhist in Thailand. This word is normally spoken along with wai. It is a fact that a small number of Siamese are Muslims in Thailand. And yes, they would do exactly the same thing in formal occasion.

In Thailand marigolds and carnations are usually given as gifts that are associated with funerals. In Thailand, death is something hallows and almost as calm as marigolds and carnation. So these two flowers are given to the family of the dead to show respect and love. Wrapping a gift in green, black or blue are used at funerals and in mourning only. Considered using gold and yellow as these two colours symbolized royal among Thais. Never try to open gifts when received. This one was made up by their ancestor to avoid offensiveness if the gifts received were not as expected.

One thing not many people know is that Thailand has few similarities with Malaysian and Japanese. First, they would remove their shoes before getting into their house or shelter. It is believed that a house or place is cleaner by doing so. Second, they would give or receive gifts or pass things, with right hand.  It is considered rude to use left hands because normally left hand is used to do stuff that involves feces.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Europe
Country : Switzerland
Explanation : Non - verbal communication, body language, facial expression, gestures and spacial communication

Non - verbal communication has been defined as communication without words. It includes apparent behaviors such as facial expressions, eyes, touching and tone of voice, as well as less obvious messages such as dress, postures and spatial distance between two or more people.

1. Non - verbal communication
The Swiss are known for their praiseworthy work ethics and punctuality. They also value the cleanliness, honesty, hardwork and material possessions. They are very proud of their environment and have a long tradition of freedom.

2. Body Language
The body language is the first thing the interviewer will be analyzing. Swiss pay extreme attention to your body language to determine your emotions and feelings. They are always being professional, stay calm and bold. Poor posture is  frowned upon. Do not stretch or slouch in public. The Swiss always maintain eye contact and dress appropriately.

3. Facial Communication
Facial communication play an important role in Switzerland and serve as a reaction to the conversation you are having : -

- "universal language of emotion"
- firm handshake
- Do not frown or smile unless intended specifically by the                           speaker.
- Be careful of how you react ( unintentionally or intentionally)
- Be yourself

4. Gestures
The Swiss try to talk without using gestures and minimize any type of physical contact. People generally avoid speaking using their hand gestures. Other than that, chewing gum or attending to matters of personal hygiene in public is not appropriate. Moreover, talking to an older person with one's hand in the pocket is generally considered disrespectful. The Swiss also generally avoid physical contact.

5. Spacial Communication
The Swiss will shake hands with everyone present. Furthemore, they never call someone by their first name unless specified. During a party, let the host introduce to the guests. Finally, the Swiss always leave a party no later than midnight.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Country:Japan
Explanation:

Japan is known as a country that really strict when it comes for their etiquette and taboos. Either you travel, studying abroad or for short-term business matters, it is crucial to learn of do’s and don’ts in your stay in Japan.

Since the Japanese strive for harmony and are group dependent, they rely on facial expression, tone of voice and posture to express their feelings. They usually rely on non-verbal messages more than the spoken word as words can have several meanings. The context in which something is said affects the meaning of the words. Therefore, it is important to understand the situation to fully appreciate the response.

In crowded situations the Japanese avoid eye contact to give themselves privacy. It is considered rude to stare into another person's eyes, particularly those of a person who is older or high-ranked than you. Japanese always respect their elders in every occasion.

While eating, do not place your chopsticks straight on top of the rice bowl. It symbolize respect for the dead which usually when someone died, you pay respect for the dead by placing the food that way. If you perform that kind of act while you eat, it is consider rude and disrespect for others.

Do not enter the house with your shoes on. Always open your shoes when you wanted to enter someone’s house. Japanese is very fond of their cleanliness. They are often

Tipping is strictly forbidden. Usually some places like in a taxi or in the restaurant there are boxes for people placing tips. But in Japan, it is usually not a customary in Japan.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: America
Country: United States
Explanation:
Each of us knows how to utilize our body parts to send messages yet very few of us understand that individuals in various parts of the world "speak" different forms of non-verbal communication language. A sign for "yes" in one society may signify "no" in another and a motion for 'farewell' in one society can be translated as 'come here' in another. The most imperative thing to remember about non-verbal practices is that they don't interpret crosswise over societies effortlessly and can prompt genuine misconception. Human behaviours are driven by qualities, convictions, and attitudes.

In American, through eyes contact, they regularly look specifically into each other's eyes when talking, conveying informality, suddenness, and equality in their trade of glances. At the point when eyes move and abstain from meeting those of the other individual, Americans may sense lack of engagement or maybe even deception. However, an absence of steady and solid eye contact might be an indication of appreciation or modesty in different societies

American’s usually will takes turns in conversation and use of silence. The way conversation gets passed between people varies greatly between cultures, and it is the length of sustained eye contact that cues a conversational turn taking. Americans tend to make medium-length eye contact before looking away, and they use a longer direct gaze to cue changing speakers. Being a task-oriented culture, Americans tend to want conversation to get to the point, where other cultures will use it to build relationship. The use of silence suggests really hearing, considering, and valuing what is being said by the other person and is critical in cross-cultural interactions to establish trust.

Therefore, American's dependably make utilization of humour, grinning, and chuckling in their association. A wise interpreter will abstain from translating humour for the justifiable reason that jokes and sarcasm don't interpret well crosswise over societies. In a few societies, humour can even be seen as hostility or dominance. For Americans, since they are individualistic and certain, have a tendency to do a ton of put-down humour. They love to poke fun at themselves as well as other people. This can be mistaken for individuals from different societies where close consideration is paid to preserving the dignity of all people in a given interaction.

Finally, in American culture, there’s a big difference between a wry smile and happy smile, just as in many Asian cultures a ‘masking smile,’ with corners of the mouth turned down, is a polite way of letting you know what you are doing is not appropriate. Moreover, typically, laughter can be a sign of embarrassment rather than a response to humour in the US. Reading facial expressions and body language is second nature to people from Asian cultures, however goes unnoticed by many Americans unless they make a concerted effort to pay closer attention in cross-cultural situations.

As a conclusion, getting to be delicate to the clues of information of non-verbal communication can help us to communicate more successfully with understudies or researchers from different societies. We can comprehend what they are stating notwithstanding when they are not talking. Then, we can figure out how to be more delicate with our own particular bodies, to see what messages they are sending and to consider ourselves to be others see us.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia

Countries: Saudi Arabia

Explanation:

Saudi Arabia is one of 22 countries that is under the Arab World and located in Western Asia. The Arabs are known for their gestures and hand movements as a way of communication. There is a saying about how important non verbal communication to the Arab that goes like “To tie an Arab’s hands while he is speaking is tantamount to tying his tongue.”

As much as the Saudis love physical contact to express their friendliness, there are some taboos that differs them with other cultures. For example, compare to the Western that promotes gender equality in every context, Saudis or any other Arabian countries believes that men and women are two different entities thus physical contact among two different genders are strictly prohibited. In contrast, the physical contact among men is publicly normal to the Saudis compare to thus in Western, so the act of Saudis men walking hand in hand symbolize nothing more than just a sign a friendship.

The left hand is considered unclean in the Arabic culture, so always use the right hand when touching, eating, or gesturing. Showing the bottom of your feet is extremely offensive for the Saudis. Besides that, direct pointing and thumbs up gesture is also considered rude in Saudi Arabia.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabian Business Etiquette, Vital Manners, Cross Cultural Communication, and Geert Hofstede

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Saudi Arabian business culture, etiquette, manners, and Geert Hofstede Analysis for Saudi Arabia

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Australia
Country: Queensland
Explanation:
In everyday life, non-verbal communication can be described as a way of communication without words. It includes body language, eye contact, and touch.
In Queensland, they cover their mouth when they yawn, and is used along with the phrase "Excuse me." Next, since Australians have a great love and appreciation for sports, they very value good sportsmanship, including any sportsmanlike gestures. For example: congratulating a team for their good performance or acting as a "good loser" are two expressions that are highly respected by Australians. Other than that, if an Australian man wants to fight in a bar, he or she needs to finish his or her beer, turn the empty glass over, and place it "squarely" on the bar.
However, Australian men do not show emotions often because they will be labeled as "unmanly" if too much physical emotion is shown. Furthermore, if a man wants to express feelings or friendship to a woman, winking is not the way to do so as winking at a woman is considered inappropriate and improper. But most commonly, Australians consider a "thumbs up" a rude gesture.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Spain
Explanation:

Affection is a common nonverbal way of communicating in Spain. Affection is shown greatly between family members and generally when greeting a family member you give them hugs or touching cheeks while making kissing noises. Spanish people typically stand closer to each other and touch each other more in conversation. This is much different than affection in the United States because in the U.S. people typically keep their distance while in conversation and generally do not touch each other unless saying good bye.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : North America
Country : USA
Explanation:

Nonverbal Communication has been characterized as correspondence without words. It incorporates evident practices, for example, outward appearances, eyes, touching, and manner of speaking, and also more subtle messages, for example, dress, stance and spatial separation between two or more individuals. Taboos are known as a social or religious custom disallowing or denying talk of a specific practice or prohibiting relationship with a specific individual, spot or thing.

In USA, eye contact shows the level of consideration or interest, that impacts attitude change or persuasion, controls cooperation, imparts feelings, characterizes force and status and has a focal part in overseeing impressions of others.

Next, touch is socially determined. Be that as it may, every society has a reasonable idea of what parts of the body one may not touch. Essential message of touch is to influence or control — secure, support, oppose (i.e. embrace, kiss, hit, kick). Plus, in USA, handshake is regular ( even for strangers ), hugs, kisses for those of inverse sex or of family ( usually ) on an inexorably more cozy premise. Note differences between African – Americans and Anglos in USA. Most African Americans touch on greeting but are irritated if touched on the head ( good boy, good girl overtones ).

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Countyr: Thailand

# data[].attributes.body
Region   : Asia
Country : Japan
Explanation :
Nonverbal Communication has been defined as communication  without words. It includes apparent behaviors such as facial expressions, eyes, touching, and tone of voice, as well as less obvious messages such as dress, posture and spatial distance between two or more people.
One of the nonverbal sign displayed by the Japanese takes place at meal times.  Each Japanese house has a Buddha as a sign of their ancestors who have passed away.  Two times a day food is placed in front of the Buddha as an offering to the ancestors.  In the middle of the food, chopsticks are place straight up perpendicular to the table.  This nonverbal cue is reserved only for this tradition.  Anyone who would place their chopsticks straight up in their food would be looked down upon.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: France
Explanation: In greetings, posture and Facial expression and gestures.

1. Greetings
French used politeness as an important goal of their non verbal communication. In France, it is not polite to extend your hands to superior individual because French are very observant of rank. This is why it is said that the difference between French culture and United State lies in handshake. The French handshake is done with a “one-pump” movement, as opposed to the United States who use their shoulder and pump multiple times. French use the same form of politeness in how they open doors for women end up with saying 'after you, please'.

2. Posture
Posture is a very important issue in French culture. Children have to stand up straight and this can be seen as prove for their nationalism.The French use a controlled walk, that is they don’t swing their arms, and when speaking to someone, do not place your hands in you pockets.  Feet and chairs are to remain on the ground, that is don’t lean back, and do not place your feet on a desk or chair. All of these happen because French see themselves as the most advanced European country and they believe they have to present themselves well.

3. Facial expression
French are often mistaken of being rude as they are very reserved due to the value privacy. They rarely smile and do it only necessary. Hence, when walking down the street, they do not smile.

4. Gestures
The use of gestures is very important to the French.  Most often, they will not admit to not understanding someone's speech, for it would be a loss of face.
1. Using your index finger to pull the skin under your eye signifies, "I don't believe you."
2. By holding up a fist and holding up in front of the nose indicates that someone is drunk.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Russia
Explanation:
If you travel to Russia for vacation or business, its best to learn about Russian culture especially how they communicate in their everyday lives. Pay most attention to their body language to avoid misunderstanding and trouble, even though the way you behave is considerably accepted in your own home country, that doesn’t mean that it is acceptable here. Asking them the appropriate ways to express the body language might be a good idea, but if you have never been to Russia and you are planning to go there, here are a few tips you should consider

Although Russian kissing each other’s cheeks and hugging most of the time even though they just met each other, it’s always appropriate to stick with handshake. Please take note that whenever you shake someone’s hand, be sure to make an eye contact with a firm handshake when you greet them. However, avoid shaking hands at the doorstep because Russian believes that it brings bad luck

Do not make OK sign, instead use thumbs up to show your approval. Making a circle with the tip of your thumb and index finger is considered rude in some countries including Russia. If you did an OK sign, nobody in Russia will understand, so use thumbs up for showing reassurance.

Maintain a close distance when talking is normal in Russia, avoid standing too far away from each other. Russian tend to stand closer during conversation because this is to show that you are interested in meeting and talking with the person.

Keeping your hands in your pockets are taken seriously in Russia, especially in a business setting, the best way is to keep your hands where they can see them. They believe that keeping hands in pockets is considered sloppy.

Slouching is a sign of rudeness in a social Russian setting. So whenever you attend gatherings you must straighten your shoulders and people will respect you.

Dont put your shoes on the seats because this is considered rude, so keep your feet off seats everywhere in Russia. Plus, shoes are meant to be on the floor so it should be where it should belong to.

# data[].attributes.body
Region:Asia,Africa
Country:Egypt
Explanation:
Communication and interactions (both verbal and non-verbal) are highly motivated and dictated by the Islamic religion that compromised of approximately 90% of the population in Egypt.
A firm RIGHT hand shake is the greetings for first time introductions or business meetings. For greetings among friends, its consists of a RIGHT hand shake, left hand on the shoulder, and a kiss on the cheek. This greeting is shared between individuals of the same sex only.

Showing the sole of the foot is considered rude in Egypt because the sole is thought to be the dirtiest part of the body.
THe left hand is also considered to be 'unclean' using your left hand to accept a gift or during an introduction is a demonstration that you find the conversation, individual, gift or introduction to be unclean.
Giving and receiving gifts is a huge part of the Egyptian culture. When you are invited to a house as a guest you are supposed to arrive with a gift. All gifts must be accepted. To not accept a gift is considered rude.

# data[].attributes.body
Country: Europe
Related country: France, Germany and Italy
Explanation:
Non-verbal communication is a conversation without word. It includes the few elements such as body gesture and positioning, facial expression, eye contact, appearance and even conversation distance.

Taboos is a custom that is prohibiting or restricting a particular practice or forbidding associated with a particular person, place or thing.
The standard American hand gesture for OK (touching the thumb with the index finger) is not recognized in France.
If one of your students covers their mouth with their hands it means they have made a mistake.

The Germans are very efficient and they are great timekeepers. It is considered extremely rude to be late, much more so than in other European countries.
Avoid chewing gum in both in class and in public.
Do not discuss personal wealth with anyone.
The American hand gesture for OK actually refers to a personal female body part in Germany, so avoid using it.
If you are dining out with other teachers or friends then you should wait until everyone has received their meal and everyone is ready to eat before you start eating.
It is thought to be bad luck to wish another person a happy birthday before the actual day.

Do not chew gum in the classroom or in public. Also avoid eating while you walk as this is considered rude.
If you are being introduced to a large group of teachers at your school you should take the time to shake each individual's hand. A communal wave or nod of the head is not really an acceptable greeting to Italians.
The standard American sign for hunger (placing your hand over your stomach) means a different thing in Italy. It actually means that you dislike a certain person or thing, so avoid using it.

# data[].attributes.body
Country : Australia
Related country : New Zealand
Explanation :

There are several practices we perform in our daily life which is out of intended harm in other hand could violate taboos in other countries.

Touching, patting or hugging other men in public is socially unacceptable.

Putting elbows on the table while eating is inappropriate. Always put knife and fork parallel on your plate with the utensil handles facing right to indicate that you are full.

Do feel "at home" and make yourself comfortable when invited to an Australian house. Their hospitality tends to be very informal, and you will be encouraged to serve yourself too.

It is against law if vacuuming house between 10pm and 7am during weekdays and 10pm and 9am during the weekends.

The thumbs-up gesture is commonly used in many cultures to signify "well done". However, thumbs-up gesture is vulgar in Australia. It means essentially "Up yours!" or "Sit on this!" when the gesture is thrust up as a typical hitchhiking gesture would be. Nowadays, Australian has approved the usage of this sign but it is still considered as a grave insult if you move it up and down.

Similar to the peace sign (the V sign), which generally means victory in most of the countries, is also conveying absolutely different meaning in Australia especially when this gesture is being shown with your palm facing inward, it is basis indicating "Up yours!".

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Western Africa
Country : Nigeria
Explanantion :
Language in Nigeria

The number of languages currently estimated and cataloged in Nigeria is 521. This number includes 510 living languages, 2 second languages without native speakers and 9 extinct languages.

The official language of Nigeria, English, was chosen to facilitate the cultural and linguistic unity of the country post-colonization by the British. The major native languages spoken in Nigeria represent three major families of African languages - the majority are Niger-Congo languages, such as Yoruba, Ibo, the Hausa language is Afro-Asiatic; and Kanuri, spoken in the northeast, primarily Borno State, is a member of the Nilo-Saharan family. Even though most ethnic groups prefer to communicate in their own languages, English, being the official language, is widely used for education, business transactions and for official purposes. English as a first language, however, remains an exclusive preserve of a small minority of the country's urban elite, and is not spoken at all in some rural areas.

Meeting and Greeting

Handshakes are the most common greeting.

Wait for a woman to extend her hand first.

Shake hands at the beginning and end of meetings.

To rush a greeting is extremely rude; spend time inquiring about the other person’s general well-being.

It is a good idea to lower your eyes when meeting someone who is older or more senior.

Titles are important. Use the honorific title plus any academic or professional title and the surname.

Wait until invited before moving to a first-name basis. This is not a first name culture, although that may be changing with people under the age of 35.

Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual.

Present and receive business cards with two hands or the right hand, never with the left.

It is a good idea to include any advanced university degree on your business card.

Make certain that your title is prominently displayed.

Never write on your business card. If the information has changed, have new cards printed.

Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting it into a business card holder.

Nigerian Communication Style

Due to the ethnic make-up of the country, communication styles vary. In the southwest, where the people are from the Yoruba tribe, people’s communication employs proverbs, sayings and even songs to enrich the meaning of what they say. This is especially true when speaking their native language, although many of the same characteristics have been carried into their English language usage. The Yoruba often use humour to prevent boredom during long meetings or serious discussions. They believe that embedding humour in their message guarantees that what they say is not readily forgotten.

Nigerians living in the south of the country tend to speak more directly. You may also find their tone slightly louder than elsewhere. They may raise their voices even more and become emotionally excited when they feel passionately about a topic. At the same time, a harsh tone is considered unwelcoming and even hostile. Nigerians prefer facial expressions that imply empathy and believe an indifferent facial expression indicates that a person is ignorant or obnoxious.

Generally speaking, Nigerians are outgoing and friendly. Communication commences with polite inquiries into the welfare of the person and his family. Such social niceties go a long way since. Therefore, foreigners who take the time to get to know the Nigerian as a person are considered friends and welcomed into a Nigerian’s inner circle of family and close friends.
Nigerian communication can also be indirect and may rely on non-verbal cues. Many use gestures when communicating. They may smile to mask their true feelings, especially when disappointed or confused. Many employ indirect eye contact to demonstrate their respect for the other person. It is common to gaze at the forehead or shoulders of someone they do not know well. Very direct eye contact may be interpreted as being intrusive unless there is a longstanding personal relationship.

At the same time, there are some Nigerians who are extremely direct communicators and have no difficulty stating what is on their minds. Therefore, it is a good idea to observe the situation carefully before determining what behaviour is appropriate.

In general, Nigerians start with the general idea and slowly move into the specific, often using a somewhat circuitous route. Their logic is often contextual. They look for the rationale behind behaviour and attempt to understand the context. They tend to examine behaviour in its total context, not merely what they have observed.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Europe
Country : Italy
Explanation :
Italians are famous for their non-verbal communication. A stereotype often heard about Italians is that we talk with our hands. Non-verbal communication is popular for many reasons—habit, emphasis and the ability at times to say more with gestures than you can with words. In many ways, gestures and body language become direct expressions of one’s personality and culture. If you have been to Italy, you know we do start communicating with our bodies from the very moment we get to know you: we shake hands vigorously, we hug, we smile, in a fashion that is entirely and charmingly mediterranean.

The question "How do I greet someone when I’m in Italy?" can be easily answered, but it is important to understand that there is not just one way to do so. Italians often greet friends with a tight hug or a kiss on each cheek, but you will also find people greeting with a shake of hands, a nod, a slap on the back or a smile. Nevertheless, there are some frequent gestures used when people meet and it can be useful to understand them. When Italians meet, they frequently kiss one another as a form of greeting: a peck on each cheek. While the standard is indeed  a kiss on each cheek, this can vary depending on the region and individual habits. Usually, you'll start with a kiss on the right cheek, followed by one on the left. Some will go for a third kiss and, in rare occasions, you may find someone giving a single kiss, on the right cheek.

Be careful though: whereas the number of kisses may be quite flexible, there is a strict convention concerning the side you should first start from. When kissing, you always lean right first, but if you're not sure and you don't remember which is the right thing to do just wait for the other person to start. And don’t think that men don't kiss! In Italy two male friends greet each others with pecks on the cheeks, too, or with a slap on the back.

It is important to note, however, that when meeting for the first time Italians are unlikely to kiss because it is seen as a more intimate type of greeting, denoting friendship or a prior acquaintance. When meeting someone for the first time a hand shake (la stretta di mano) is more appropriate.

Shaking hands is a recognised greeting in almost every Western culture. La stretta di mano is used between people who are introduced for the first time and simply want to say through a means of nonverbal communication, "Nice to meet you” (in Italian, we say "piacere").

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Country: Japan, Korea
Explanation:
The most common greeting in Japan is the bow. The timing, posture, and movement reflects sincerity, respect and graciousness. In Japan, respect means the capability of demonstrating respect in whichever way a specific culture requires such as respect for age. A beautiful bow is often compared to a ripe rice stalk swaying in the wind. The more mature the person, the deeper the head is lowered. An improper bow hints at a lack of education and maturity. As a foreign visitor you are not expected to emulate this ritual faithfully, a gentle nod will do.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
(New UPDATE: Monday 5:02 p.m. OK, it's not funny if you work at the White House. But for everybody else a new video at the bottom of this post will provide some chuckles about how the rest of the world chooses to greet the Japanese Emperor. Hint: It's different than President Obama.)

(UPDATES: 12:22 p.m. Saturday. A brief news video has been added below, showing the greeting in this photograph. Contrary to some claims, the video shows no reciprocal bow by the emperor, who traditionally bows to no one. And we've added a file photo from 2007 of Vice President Dick Cheney greeting the Japanese Emperor at the same residence in a different fashion.)

How low will the new American president go for the world's royalty?

This photo will get Democrat President Obama a lot of approving nods in Japan this weekend, especially among the older generation of Japanese who still pay attention to the royal family living in i ts downtown castle. Very low bows like this are a sign of great respect and deference to a superior.

To some in the United States, however, an upright handshake might have looked better. (See Cheney-Akihito photo, right).

Remember Michelle Obama casually patting Britain's Queen Elizabeth on the back during their Buckingham Palace visit? America's royalty tends to make movies and get bad reviews and lots of money as a sign of respect.

Obama could receive some frowns back home as he did for his not-quite-this-low-or-maybe-about-the-same-bow to the Saudi king not so long ago. (See photo here)

How times change under Democratic presidents.

Back in 1994 when President Bill Clinton appeared to maybe perhaps almost start to bow to Akihito at a White House encounter, U.S. officials rushed to deny it was any such a thing. And the N.Y. Times chronicled the comedic drama here.

Akihito, who turns 76 next month, is the eldest son and fifth child of Emperor Showa, the name given to an emperor and his reign after his death.

Emperor Showa is better known abroad by the life name of Hirohito. He became emperor in 1925 and died in 1989, the longest historically-known rule of the nation's 125 emperors.

Hirohito presided over his nation's growth from an undeveloped agrarian economy into the expansionist military power and ally of Nazi Germany of the 1930's.

And, later, Japan became a global economic giant. Hirohito, along with Prime Minister Hideki Tojo, who authorized the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, were much reviled abroad during World War II.

Historically, deba te has simmered over how much of a political puppet Hirohito was to the country's military before and during the war.

Even after Democratic President Harry Truman ordered the two atom bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the summer of 1945, there were strong forces within Japan that wanted to continue to fight the Americans in the spirit of kamikaze suicide pilots.

But Akihito's father went on national radio, the first time his subjects had ever heard Hirohito's voice, and without using the inflammatory word "surrender," pronounced that the country must "accept the unacceptable." It did.

As the conquering Allied general and then presiding officer of the U.S. occupation, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, decided to allow Japan to keep its emperor as a ceremonial unifying institution within a nascent democracy.

Tojo, on the other hand, was hanged.

MacArthur treated Emperor Hirohito respectfully but, as his body language in this blac k and white postwar photo demonstrates, was not particularly deferential.

(But then MacArthur was not known as a particularly deferential person, as Truman discovered just before firing him later. But that's another war.)

Akihito was born during Japan's conquering of China and was evacuated during the devastating American fire-bombing of Tokyo, which was built largely of wood in those days.

The future emperor learned English during the U.S. occupation, but, inexplicably, his father ordered that his oldest boy not receive an Army commission as previous imperial heirs always had.

Akihito assumed the throne on Jan. 7, 1989. Within weeks he began a series of formal expressions of remorse to Asian countries for Japan's actions during his....

...father's reign. In 2003, he underwent surgery for prostate cancer.

In 1959, Akihito married Michiko Shoda, the first commoner allowed to enter the Japanese royal family. That was two years before the birth of Akihito's future presidential guest, Barack Obama.

Joe Biden was already 17 by then. But he wasn't a senator.

(UPDATE: Here's a new video assembled by some clever College Republicans at the University of Connecticut. It's even got music and requires no explanation.

-- Andrew Malcolm

No bowing necessary here. Just click here to get Twitter alerts of each new Ticket item. Or follow us @latimestot. And we're also over here on Facebook.

Photo: Mandel Ngan / AFP / Getty; David Bohrer / White House (Vice President Dick Cheney greets Emperor Akihito somewhat differently in 2007); Reuters (Obama bows to the king of Saudi Arabia earlier this year); U.S. Army Archives (Gen. Douglas MacArthur not bowing to Emperor Hirohito after World War II).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How low will he go? Obama gives Japan's Emperor Akihito a wow bow (Updates with videos, pic)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
(New UPDATE: Monday 5:02 p.m. OK, it's not funny if you work at the White House. But for everybody else a new video at the bottom of this post will provide some chuckles about how the rest of the world chooses to greet the Japanese Emperor. Hint: It's different than President Obama.)

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Africa
Country: South Africa
Explanation:

Gestures:
South Africans are very expressive people by nature and the use of hand gestures during conversation is common.  The following are several hand gestures used:
Firstly,raising the right hand in a first is regarded as a symbol for black power. Next,holding both hands out in a cupped position is a gesture meaning what “the gift you may give me, will mean so much that I must hold it in two hands.Moreover,placing your right hand over your mouth when yawning is considered polite.In addition,extending your hand with your palm facing outward and closing it so that your finger tips touch repeatedly so it looks like a “flapping is used to tell someone that their car blinker is on. Furthermore,beating upon your breasts with your hands is viewed as a form of prayer among members of the Bantu tribe.Lastly,spitting in the direction of a deity is regarded as a adoration.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Country: Germany
Explanation:
Too much smiling and public gestures of affection are frowned upon, especially in the business culture. These displays are reserved for family and close friends. Eye contact during the introduction is serious, direct, and should be maintained as long as the person is addressing you. Keep your hands out of your pockets and avoid chewing gum. It is considered as rude. The “O.K.” sign (formed by having the tip of the thumb meet the tip of the forefinger) should be avoided. The signal is a supreme insult and vulgar, indicating a very private body orifice.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Europe
Countries: United Kingdom, Belgium, France
Explanation:
The Hand gesture (stop) is one form of non-verbal communication. When one raises the hand up with the palm facing towards the opposite person, it means 'to stop' in these countries. In a stop sign, the hand is tilled forward. This means the person is in an authoritative figure and asking one to 'Stop'. If the fingers are pushing down, it will indicated for the person to sit down or settle. This is not a defensive hand gesture and is in fact a gesture to take control over the person it is intended for. If you were to use this sign in Asian (Singapore or Malaysia), it would mean that one is trying to 'hail' someone's attention like a waiter or asking for permission to speak.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: South America
Countries: Latin America

{Definition of Latin America}
1. Countries in America where Latin is spoken  e.g. Argentina, Peru, Bolivia
2. The countries of the Western Hemisphere SOUTH of the United States, especially those speaking Spanish, Portuguese, or French.

Explanation:
In Latin America, there is less physical distance between people, softer handshakes, more touching and abrazos, and greater use of hand and arm gestures.  Business dress tends to be more fashionable and, in some cases, more colorful (especially in tropical regions where Guayabera style shirts are worn to the office).

Nonverbal language is very important in face-to-face communications because it conveys feelings, intentions, and reactions.  Latin Americans may seem emotional and excitable to their U.S. counterparts,  while U.S. Americans may come across as cold and distant.  Even in non-face-to-face communications such as via e-mail , fax, or telephone, the absence of nonverbal signals may create a problem.  Not being able to see each other, the parties may misinterpret the true meaning or tone of written messages.

Nonverbal language in Spanish culture is different from nonverbal culture in the United States.  A thumbs-up to someone in the United States might mean something else in a different country.

For example, the hand gesture we use for "come here," the hand palm up with the index finger extending in and out three or four times, has a very different meaning in Latin America. It means that you are very romantically interested in the person and is considered a solicitation. To motion to someone in Latin America "come here" extend your hand palm down and move all four fingers in and out together three or four times.

In South America, when a known thief enters the room, making this gesture allows all others in the room to know his true intent. To make this hand gesture, simply sweep your arm across the table as if you were trying to gather any money that might belong to some one else. Repeat this gesture a couple of times to really get the point across.

# data[].attributes.body
Region : Asia
Countries : Japan, China
Explanation :
Eye contact may be one of the ‘nice’ forms of social interaction, but it should never be underestimated. We must be aware of our social behaviour if we are willing to travel to another places or country. Non-verbal communication represents an important part of general human communication and it can be very helpful but ignoring certain non-verbal communications in certain country can get you into trouble and seen as rude or inappropriate.

There is in taboo in Japan where it is considered rude to stare. Prolonged direct eye contact is considered impolite or even intimidating. For example, if a Japanese woman avoids looking someone in the eyes, she is not showing a lack of interest nor is she demonstrating a lack of self-confidence, instead, she is being polite, respectful and appropriate according to her culture.

To add, back in the old days, especially for Chinese wedding, white dress was not allowed as white dress was for a funeral. Therefore, all individuals involved had to wear black formal costumes. Later, the color changed to red. Now under Western influence, white is the customary formal color for brides and sometimes for bridegrooms too.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Countries: Malaysia, China, Korea
Explanation:
The word taboo, which has been borrowed from the Tongan, originally known as tabu. The Tongans used tabu as an adjective that refers to persons or things “under prohibition, forbidden or set apart.” However, Captain Cook, a British navigator and explorer, made it into a noun referring to the prohibition itself and a verb meaning “to make someone or something taboo.”  In early contexts it was primarily used to evoke a breach of good manners. To most people, it refers to “forbidden” or “to be avoided” behaviors, both verbal and non-verbal. A taboo is also an expression of disapproved behaviors in a society.

There are many types of non-verbal communication which including space and distance, physical contact, facial expressions, gestures and eye contact. Most of the Malaysians have the most common gestures and facial expression. They tend to avoid speaking in a loud voice and standing while being introduced to someone. They will look each other in the eyes while communicating. For gestures of non-verbal communication, people would tend to make some hand movements that imply some symbols such as lifting one of the fingers of the opposite hands, place softly or pointing softly and etc. For personal appearance, people tend to find a way of grooming themselves. The traditional Malay greeting of 'Salam' resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, " I greet you from my heart". The visitor should requite the "Salam". "Salam" is not practiced by the rest of the community though, so a normal handshake will do.

Meanwhile, in the ancient Chinese weddings, a white dress was not allowed to be worn because white was for a funeral. Therefore, all individuals involved had to wear black formal costumes. Later, the color changed to red. Now under Western influence, white is the customary formal color for brides and sometimes for bridegrooms, too

Some non-verbal taboos may seem funny, but severe punishment might have come to those who failed to observe the rules in an earlier time and today as well. Accidents may also result from taboo non-verbal cues (e.g., an inappropriate gesture). For example, in 1988, in Los Angeles, an entertainer from Thailand was reported to have been convicted of the murder of a young Laotian. The entertainer was singing in an after-hours Thai cabaret when the Laotian, a patron, put his foot on a chair with the sole directed at the entertainer. When the cabaret closed, the entertainer followed the man and shot him. The reason was that among Southeast Asians, showing or directing the sole of the shoe to another person is considered a grievous insult

An incident also took place in Hong Kong a few years ago because of a hand signal miscommunication. A television station there took an annual picture of all the contracted entertainers before the Chinese New Year. As a joke, famous Kung-fu actor who held his fist with his middle finger stuck out on top of the head of an actress who stood in front of him. When his photo appeared in the newspapers, the station received dozens of calls from Westerners living in Hong Kong complaining about the indecent gesture. To them, when the middle finger is used, there is only one interpretation – indecency. When he applied this gesture, according to his explanation, he meant to suggest that his friend had grown horns on her head for fun. The actor refused to apologize because his gesture was not intended to be an insult as the gesture is not considered indecent in Chinese society.

As for gift-giving taboos, we need to keep in mind that in Muslim countries gifts should be presented with the right hand only because the left is considered unclean. While a bottle of wine would be a welcome gift in many countries, such a gift should be avoided in Muslim countries, which have strict religious prohibitions against alcohol. If we are invited to someone’s home, flowers for the host are usually appreciated the world over. However, in much of Europe and China, chrysanthemums are associated with funerals, and red flowers have a strong romantic connotation. These should be avoided.

To many Chinese people, a fan is a forbidden present because it has the identical sound as “separation.” If a person gives a fan to his or her friend, their friendship will stop or diminish from that time. Therefore, it has become a phonologically linked taboo to give friends a fan in Chinese society but for Korean, they didn't think the same with Chinese because of different phonologically-linked taboos. Chinese and Koreans might have been sharing more animal-linked taboos than either shares with Americans.

# data[].attributes.body
Region: Asia
Countries: List of countries.....
Explanation:.....

*You may add any attachment to support your explanation.