Hand gestures to avoid
Informal Depends on context
What it really means
One to know: the "V sign" (two fingers up) with the back of your hand facing out is an offensive insult in the UK, unlike a palm-out V for "peace" or "two". A raised middle finger is also rude. Thumbs-up and a palm-out wave are friendly and safe.
Chinese explanation
有一个要记住："V 字手势"（竖起两根手指）如果手背朝外，在英国是带侮辱性的手势，与手掌朝外表示"和平"或"二"不同。竖中指同样粗鲁。竖大拇指和手掌朝外挥手则友好又稳妥。
Example conversation
A: I ordered two with my fingers — did I do it wrong?
B: Just turn your palm outwards; back-of-hand can look rude here.
A：我用手指比了个二——比错了吗？
B：手掌朝外就行；手背朝外在这儿看着不礼貌。
What you could say back
Related phrases
Go deeper
All Customs & Etiquette
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake