Translation guide
The English word "gesture" can refer to a physical movement that conveys meaning, or a symbolic action done for effect. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether it's a hand/body movement, a sign, or a figurative act.
A movement of the hands, arms, or body used to communicate an idea, feeling, or intention.
The most common and direct equivalent for a communicative hand/body movement. Used in everyday conversation.
An action performed to show a feeling or intention, often in a formal or diplomatic context.
ジェスチャー is the most common and covers both physical and symbolic gestures. 身振り is more about bodily movements, often deliberate. 仕草 refers to mannerisms or characteristic gestures, often unconscious or aesthetic.
彼のジェスチャーは大げさだ。
His gestures are exaggerated.
身振りで道を教えた。
I gave directions with gestures.
彼女の髪を触る仕草が好きだ。
I like the gesture of her touching her hair.
彼は話しながら大きなジェスチャーをした。
He made big gestures while talking.
Refers to bodily gestures, often used with 手振り (hand gestures). Slightly more formal or descriptive than ジェスチャー.
身振り手振りで説明する。
Explain using gestures.
Specifically hand gestures. Often paired with 身振り.
手振りで「さようなら」を伝えた。
I conveyed 'goodbye' with a hand gesture.
Refers to a gesture or mannerism, often unconscious or characteristic of a person. Can also refer to theatrical gestures.
彼女の仕草はとても優雅だ。
Her gestures are very graceful.
Also used for symbolic actions, like a gesture of goodwill. Common in modern Japanese.
それは友好のジェスチャーだ。
That's a gesture of friendship.
Literally 'expression of intention'. Used when the gesture is a clear signal of one's stance or feelings.
彼の辞任は抗議の意思表示だった。
His resignation was a gesture of protest.
Means 'sign' or 'token'. Used in phrases like 感謝の印 (a token of gratitude).
感謝の印としてこれを贈ります。
I give this as a gesture of thanks.