Language is more than words. In France, gestures and physical communication are a natural part of conversation. Knowing the most common French gestures helps you understand what people mean even when you miss some words, and helps you communicate more naturally yourself.
The most iconic French gestures
La bise
The cheek kiss greeting. Used between friends, family, and sometimes new acquaintances. The number of kisses varies by region: one, two, three, or even four in some parts of France. In Paris, two is standard. During introductions, follow the other person’s lead.
Note: la bise is not romantic — it is a standard social greeting.
Le haussement d’épaules (the shrug)
A shrug with slightly raised hands, turned-down lips, and raised eyebrows means “I don’t know”, “it can’t be helped”, or “whatever”. It is used constantly and conveys a range of resigned or indifferent feelings without any words.
Le geste de partir (flicking the fingers under the chin)
Flicking the fingertips outward under the chin means “I don’t care” or dismissal. It is slightly rude and used informally.
Mon oeil (pulling down the lower eyelid)
Pulling down the lower eyelid with a fingertip and saying mon oeil means “I don’t believe you” or “yeah right”. It is very informal and slightly old-fashioned.
Bravo / Excellent (rubbing fingertips together)
Rubbing fingertips together in front of the chest can indicate something is very good, especially food.
La moue (the French pout)
A pout with slightly turned-down corners of the mouth accompanied by a head tilt. It expresses doubt, slight disagreement, or considering an option. Very common and not necessarily negative.
Greetings and physical distance
- French people stand slightly closer than British or American norms during conversation.
- Handshakes are firmer than the French stereotype suggests in professional settings.
- Eye contact is expected and considered a sign of respect and engagement.
Useful phrases connected to gestures
- Je ne sais pas. = I don’t know. (often accompanied by a shrug)
- Bof. = meh, so-so (often with a small shrug)
- C’est délicieux ! = It’s delicious! (fingertips to lips kiss)
- Tu rigoles ? = Are you joking?
Final tip
Watch French films or YouTube videos with French speakers in conversation and focus on what they do with their hands and faces. Gestures are rarely taught in textbooks but are instantly recognizable once you know what to look for.
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