hand signal / initials
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hand signal
A gesture or signal given with the hand in order to communicate information or an intention nonverbally.
Der Radfahrer gab ein klares Handzeichen, bevor er links abbog.
The cyclist gave a clear hand signal before turning left.
initials
A handwritten mark, often initials or a short signature, used instead of a full signature to mark or approve a document.
Bitte setzen Sie auf jeder Seite unten rechts Ihr Handzeichen.
Please put your initials at the bottom right of each page.
The word is simply made up of 'die Hand' (the hand) and 'das Zeichen' (the sign). So it literally describes a sign that you make with your hand.
Der Polizist regelte den Verkehr mit Handzeichen.
The police officer directed traffic with hand signals.
The meaning depends heavily on the context. In road traffic or communication, it refers to a gesture. In the office or in contracts, it means a short handwritten mark or initials.
Taucher verständigen sich unter Wasser mit Handzeichen.
Divers communicate underwater with hand signals.
A different verb is used depending on the meaning. A signal or gesture is 'gegeben' (given): 'ein Handzeichen geben' (to give a hand signal). A handwritten mark on a document is 'gesetzt' (put): 'sein Handzeichen setzen' (to put one’s initials).
Der Schiedsrichter gab das Handzeichen zum Weiterspielen.
The referee gave the hand signal to continue playing.
gesture
A Geste is a movement that expresses an idea, feeling, or intention. A Handzeichen is more specific: it is made with the hand as a nonverbal signal conveying particular information or an intention. Handzeichen is therefore more appropriate for an agreed signal.
Mit dem vereinbarten Handzeichen gab sie dem Besucher das Signal zum Eintreten.
With the agreed hand signal, she signaled to the visitor to come in.
Mit einer freundlichen Geste zeigte sie dem Besucher ihre Zustimmung.
With a friendly gesture, she showed the visitor that she agreed.
