die Geste
gesture
A movement, especially with the hands or head, that expresses or accompanies an idea, feeling, or intention.
EXAMPLE
Mit einer abwehrenden Geste lehnte er das Angebot ab.
With a dismissive gesture, he rejected the offer.
die Geste
gesture
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Meanings
die Geste
gesture
An action that serves as a symbolic expression of a particular attitude or intention, often to show kindness or goodwill.
EXAMPLE
Ihr Anruf war eine wirklich nette Geste.
Her call was a really nice gesture.
Usage tips
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about a specific body movement, the first meaning is intended. If an action is described as a sign of kindness or politeness, the second, symbolic meaning is intended.
EXAMPLE
Mit einer einladenden Geste bat er uns herein.
With an inviting gesture, he asked us to come in.
Typical collocations
When referring to a body movement, the verb 'machen' (to make) is often used. Adjectives that describe the movement are also typical, such as 'eine schnelle Geste' (a quick gesture) or 'eine beruhigende Geste' (a calming gesture).
EXAMPLE
Er machte eine Geste, die ich nicht verstand.
He made a gesture that I didn't understand.
Symbolic action
In the symbolic meaning, 'Geste' (gesture) is often combined with adjectives that express an intention, e.g. 'eine nette Geste' (a nice gesture), 'eine großzügige Geste' (a generous gesture), or 'eine Geste des guten Willens' (a gesture of goodwill).
EXAMPLE
Sein Hilfsangebot war eine Geste der Solidarität.
His offer of help was a gesture of solidarity.
Compare with
Geste vs Zeichen
sign / symbol
When referring to a bodily movement, Geste emphasizes the movement and the expression associated with it. Zeichen, by contrast, emphasizes the understandable message or signal. The same hand movement can therefore be described as either a Geste or a Zeichen, depending on the perspective.
Geste
Mit einer ruhigen Geste ihrer Hand drückte sie ihre Geduld aus.
With a calm gesture of her hand, she expressed her patience.
Zeichen
Mit einem deutlichen Zeichen ihrer Hand bat sie ihn zu warten.
With a clear signal from her hand, she asked him to wait.
In real life
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