Finger counting gives away your nationality

Re:Finger counting gives away your nationality by Leherenn on Friday September 03, 2021 @05:16PM (#28409510)

It's going to depend based on context. In this case, context was unclear and a misunderstanding ensued. I have nothing to back this up except experience, but I think the thumb up is less common is Europe than in the US.

In this specific case, I think the expected answer is to confirm the number by flashing the same sign. A nod would also work, but be potentially less clear/easier to be missed.

The ok gesture would likely have worked as well, since in France they start counting from the thumb. I don't think the fringe group association is well known in France.

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Re:Finger counting gives away your nationality by bombela on Friday September 03, 2021 @07:12PM (#28410475)

The ok sign usually means zero in France.

In this situation; as a Frenchy; I would have repeated the count to confirm while nodding. Or waved my hand while shaking my head to refuse.

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Re:Finger counting gives away your nationality by touisteur on Friday September 03, 2021 @07:27PM (#28410567)

Or waved your finger to say no, or as a real French just shout through 'patron ya marée basse, r'mets voir les p'tites soeurs !'. Thumbs up would work too, maybe both thumbs up, once you're sure the guy understood you wanted two pint...

We may use the OK sign to signify 'au poil' (very fine) most often with pinched lips (mock Italian face).

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