What does "fingers crossed" mean in Vietnam?

In Vietnam the gesture is considered rude, especially to another person. Referring to female genitals, it is comparable to the middle finger in American culture. In German-speaking countries, as well as Sweden and Latvia, the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding one's thumbs.

What is a rude hand gesture in Vietnam?

Negative hand gestures to avoid. Crossed fingers. In Vietnam, crossing your fingers is not good luck. It's seen as rude and disrespectful is actually comparable to the middle finger in western cultures and refers to a female body part.

What is the meaning of fingers crossed 🤞?

If you cross your fingers, you put one finger on top of another and hope for good luck. If you say that someone is keeping their fingers crossed, you mean they are hoping for good luck. He crossed his fingers, asking for luck for the first time in his life.

How do you show respect in Vietnam?

In formal situations, people may shake with both hands to show respect, placing the left hand on top of the handshake. Women typically greet others with a brief bow or polite nod of acknowledgement. It is best to wait for a woman to extend her hand first before offering a handshake.

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

The Vietnamese are not demonstrative so no kissing on the cheek/hugs/backslapping when you say hello. - Low cut tops on women You'll never see a Vietnamese woman show off her cleavage! - Don't give sweeties or pencils etc. to kids you come across whilst touring. Give any treats to their accompanying adults.

Crossing your fingers is rude in Vietnam

What are two taboos in Vietnam?

If you are invited to a Vietnamese home, remember the following Vietnamese taboos to ensure a smooth and respectful visit: Take off your shoes before entering: To show respect. Avoid family altars: Do not step over or walk in front of ancestral altars to avoid disrespect.

Why is it rude to cross your fingers in Vietnam?

In Vietnam the gesture is considered rude, especially to another person. Referring to female genitals, it is comparable to the middle finger in American culture. In German-speaking countries, as well as Sweden and Latvia, the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding one's thumbs.

Are Brits welcome in Vietnam?

Vietnam is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for British tourists seeking adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. This Southeast Asian gem offers vibrant cities, breathtaking natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, making it a top choice for Vietnam for British tourists in the UK.

How do Vietnamese show affection?

Vietnamese like to show intimacy by physical contacts like tapping on the shoulder, sitting close (too close to westerners) to each other, whispering into others' years, or people of the same gender walking hand in hand or hands over shoulders with each other.

What are some taboo conversation topics in Vietnam?

Discussing Sensitive Topics: Topics such as politics, religion, and personal finances are generally avoided in conversations to prevent conflicts and maintain social harmony.

Can Muslims say "fingers crossed"?

Fingers crossed: Has pagan or Christian origins. “Tomorrow is my test so fingers crossed!” The statement, act and emoji are forbidden in Islam. Everything occurs according to the Decree of Allah, and crossing one's fingers is a false superstition.

Do crossed fingers mean lying?

People cross their fingers while telling a white lie to avoid consequences, a modern incarnation of the medieval belief crossed fingers invalidate oaths. It's also considered bad luck to make a wish without immediately crossing fingers, as the wish is thought susceptible to tricksy spirits.

What does 🤞 mean in slang?

What Does 🤞 Mean? The hand emoji meaning of this icon is “fingers crossed.” It's a good luck symbol, encouraging your preferred outcome.

What not to say in Vietnam?

As a general rule, keep your cool and avoid loud arguments, making a scene, berating others for mistakes, or pointing out anything that may cause the locals to feel shamed.

Why do Vietnamese avoid eye contact?

Avoiding eye contact demonstrates respect to elders, people of higher status or of the opposite sex.

What is considered rude in Vietnam?

Speaking too loudly and making excessive gestures is considered rude in public places, especially as a woman. Many will not speak or look at others to avoid disrespect in public. Vietnamese culture greatly respects the elderly and, in general, figures of authority.

Do Vietnamese people say "I love you"?

So to say ”I love you” in Vietnamese: If you're the gentleman, you will say anh yêu em to the lady. If you're the lady, you will say em yêu anh to the man.

How do Vietnamese marry?

The civil ceremony is typically conducted at the registry office, where both parties sign the marriage certificate in front of the official. For couples who wish to hold a more elaborate ceremony, such as a traditional Vietnamese wedding or a religious ceremony, this can take place after the legal registration.

How to tell if a Viet girl likes you?

If a Vietnamese girl likes you, she will talk a lot and ask many questions, she'll be asking you about meeting her family, she'll maintain eye contact and smile, she'll be eager to show you her culture, she'll play with your hair, and she'll laugh at your jokes.

What to be careful of in Vietnam?

Is Vietnam rich or poor?

Overview. Viet Nam is a remarkable development success story. Economic reforms since the launch of Đổi Mới in 1986, coupled with favorable global trends, helped transform Viet Nam from one of the world's poorest countries to a middle-income economy in a single generation.

What is the most common crime in Vietnam?

Violent crime against foreigners is rare, however petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing occur regularly. Bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas and in places visited by tourists. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet Lunar New Year seasons.

Why can't you flush toilet paper in Vietnam?

Unlike Western sewer systems, many in Vietnam simply aren't built to handle paper waste, which can lead to all kinds of plumbing headaches. Instead, there's a handy trash bin right next to the toilet where you should toss your used tissue.

Is it rude to say no in Vietnam?

Say “No” politely

You should politely decline rather than firmly telling someone “No” to avoid making them feel bad. It is a great tip to keep a Vietnamese face intact.

What colors to avoid in Vietnamese culture?

Avoid wearing red or black clothes when visiting a funeral or a mourning house. These are considered unlucky colors in Vietnamese culture. White, gray, or blue are more appropriate. Avoid wearing military-style clothing or accessories, such as camouflage, khaki, or dog tags.