Contents Preface introduction unit 1

Fill in the gaps with the words given in the box:

Body language and gestures in Uzbekistan

Fist and slapping, cheek, a slicing motion, body language, nodding, shake, gestures, flicking

Since most tourists don’t speak Uzbek, 1) ______________________ can be a major help in communication. For example, placing one hand on your heart and slightly 2)_______________________ your head is a good way to show gratitude, respect or contrition. It is also the accepted greeting towards an older person or your relatives with whom you shouldn’t 3)___________________ hands.

However, there are certain 4)_______________________ that you may wish to learn so that you don’t make them by accident. The first gesture is considered as a very rude, which is shown by making one hand into a 5) ______________________it with the other hand. Curiously, this gesture, when done discreetly, is often more acceptable than the use of the actual word for insulting, either in Uzbek or English.

Another important gesture is the sign for getting drunk. This is made by the 6)_________________ side of your neck with your hand. It implies the intention of getting drunk rather than drinking in moderation with a meal.

Shame is demonstrated by dragging your forefinger down your 7)___________________.

Lastly, the gesture for “a lot” or too much is shown by making 8)___________________ across your neck with your thumb.

BODY IDIOMS

3.