So while this post contains much less exciting content than the last one, I spiced it up with some exciting GIFs! That’s right, you get to see really flattering animated images I made on photobooth in my poorly-lit bedroom. Only the most advanced technology happening here!
Living here, I have definitely been challenged by the language at times. However, beyond the spoken and written language of Dominican Spanish, there is also a whole other world of differences in body language. This has definitely been something I have been trying to pay attention to. Being unable to communicate as clearly in words, I feel that body language has definitely gained more importance in relating to the world. It is especially obvious when using gestures. There are some gestures that are extremely common and are used in completely different ways than you may think. Here are the essential gestures to get by in the DR.
THE WINK
Well, this one isn’t exactly the most different. However, men here wink at me all the time. At first, I was really put off by this as I’ve always had sort of sleazy associations with winks, and I felt like I was getting hit on in the most bizarre situations (when I’m buying band aids and antiseptic cream for a currently bleeding foot? Really?). After a while, I realized that these winks are mostly used as a way to end a conversation, a sort of different way to say “good bye” or “this interaction is finished, nice talking to you”. So, in conclusion, winks=sort of the same as in the US, but less creepy.
THE WAGGING FINGER
Different than the US, the wagging finger means “no, please stop bothering me”. This finger is useful for all kinds of situations–from someone trying to sell you sarongs on the beach, offering an unwanted massage or a taxi driver offering a ride. It’s a great way to get on with your day without too much fuss!
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The facial expression is key, especially the lips. Also important to note is that the rest of your hand does NOT move, only your finger.
“OFF WITH HIS HEAD!”
Used for situations such as the one above, but much more extreme. This sends the message loud and clear “LEAVE ME ALONE”. It was last in such widespread use during the French Revolution.
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Again, note the severe facial expression. While this is conveys a stronger sentiment than the finger wag, it is not always foolproof. I once watch a woman in a traffic jam do this for 2 minutes straight to avoid buying a newspaper. The newspaper seller, however, did not stop pestering her until traffic finally moved.
THE HISS
This is extremely common in most situations. Not exactly a gesture, the hiss is just what it sounds like, a “tsssst” noise like a kettle boiling. While this is a very rude noise to make at someone in the US, here it is simply a convenient way to get someone’s attention, whether it is a friend, a waiter or a stranger. It has been taking me a while to get used to this one, I still get startled about 50% of the time.
So there you have it, the essential guide to Dominican body language! With these simple skills, soon you too will be able to survive the mean streets of Santo Domingo like a pro!
*wink*
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