HANDS · 008 OF 120
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FINGER POINTING

The index finger extended toward another person, an object, or the air, with the other fingers curled.

MEANS

Aggression, accusation, or strong assertion. Universally read as confrontational.

CONTEXT

One of the few gestures interpreted as hostile across nearly all cultures. Even when used to emphasise a benign point, it produces a defensive reaction in the listener. Skilled speakers replace it with a thumb-and-fist gesture or an open palm.

NOT

Pointing at a shared object both parties are looking at, which is neutral.

Index
RELATED · CONTEMPT