"Air Quotes" and other non-verbal communication

Question

I am wondering if the "air quote" symbol is entirely American or not. What are some non-verbal cues in Spanish?

• good oned, learnt a new word, getting my vote too - Heidita Oct 31, 2009

Answer 1

So, you're basically asking about typical Spanish gestures?

• I think that is part of the question. But I would really like to know about the 'air quotes'. - chaparrito Oct 31, 2009
• Yes, can you describe any common Spanish gestures for me? - pattyp Oct 31, 2009
• Check my answer below. - Issabela Oct 31, 2009

Answer 2

Anyway, if you're interested in typical Spanish gestures (non-verbal communication), I recommend checking the following links:

Spanish gestures 1

Spanish gestures 2

Spanish gestures 3

Spanish gestures 4

Spanish gestures 5

Source: The Guardian

• Cool! - cheeseisyumm Oct 31, 2009
• This is very helpful, thank you! - pattyp Oct 31, 2009
• Excellent, Issabela! - --Mariana-- Oct 31, 2009
• Sweet! Thank you Issabela! - chaparrito Oct 31, 2009
• Oh, and I found some audio lessons on the Guardian's site, five to be exact. Downloadable in a form of a podcast. - Issabela Oct 31, 2009

Answer 3

An example of an air quote:

And my favorite, Air Guitar! lol:

• Nice! - --Mariana-- Oct 31, 2009

Answer 4

In thinking how to explain what "air quotes" are, I realize how challenging it is to translate non verbal communication, especially slang.

Air quotes is a way to mock someone else's choice of words. For instance, my boss tells me she is "busy working," but really she is playing solitaire on her computer. So, I go to my co-worker and say, "the boss is too busy 'working' to help us right now." When I say the word, "working," I make imaginary quotes in the air with my fingers on both hands. Picture making peace signs with both both hands, and curling your fingers as if you are scratching quotes in the air.

A silly trend, if you ask me.

Answer 5

An intriguing question. Thanks.

This may give a clue: (From "The Phrase Finder, by Gary Martin.)

• What may give a clue? - 00515f39 Oct 31, 2009

Answer 6

Please, pattyp, can you explain what an "air quote" is. I am so curious to know what your question means. Someone has voted for this question and I am wondering what they know and I don't.

Answer 7

Sorry, I tried to copy and paste out Mr. Martin's text but didn't succeed.

Try Googling "air quotes" and you'll find a link to his book down below.

• OK I'll try - 00515f39 Oct 31, 2009
• Brilliant. I never knew that ***** meant " air quotes". Everyone else can google it, as I did. I don't know the answer, but it was a great question. - 00515f39 Oct 31, 2009

Answer 8

To paraphrase: Mr. Martin says the phrase originated in the US. First mentioned and described in "Spy" magazine in 1989.

Earlier references to "air quotes" appeared as early as 1927.

Whether "air quotes" have become universal, he doesn't say.

Hope that helps...

• That's it, you keep everyone guessing what an "air quote is"!! - 00515f39 Oct 31, 2009

Answer 9

jejeje, cheesie, I just love this air guitar thing, I think it is sooo stupid, sorry, no offence.

So, an air quote for Spain:

Now this has been a real catch, the Guardian published a short explanation for tourist how to interpret Spanish gestures.

How to know what Spaniards are saying.

• Welllll, jeje, issa already included that link...never mind, I am leaving this .. - Heidita Oct 31, 2009