gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'gesture' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a movement or action made with the body as a way of expressing or communicating something, or an action intended to communicate an attitude or feeling. Example sentence: She made a gesture of understanding to show that she appreciated his gesture of kindness.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even her few words of Gaelic at the start of her speech at the state dinner on Wednesday evening – "A Úachtárain agus a chairde" ("president and friends", immaculately pronounced) – were an unexpected gesture.

The Guardian

The government of Sri Lanka decided to accept this "gesture of goodwill" and to not "pursue this distasteful issue any further", while carefully ignoring additional inclusions in the statement that "numerous cases of rape and sexual violence in Sri Lanka, particularly acts committed against women held in detention by the government", have been detailed in the past.

The Guardian - Opinion

Higgins made his own gesture when he bowed his head at the memorial brass in Westminster Abbey to Earl Mountbatten of Burma, the Queen's second cousin, who was assassinated by the IRA in 1979.

The Guardian

The third, and by far the most sensational, gesture compelled Heath to sack him from the shadow cabinet in April 1968, because of the 'rivers of blood' speech he made in Birmingham about immigration.

The Guardian

There is a close relationship between Guinea and Morocco, but it was a strange gesture by the Moroccans to invite them – they withdrew as hosts for the Cup of Nations, at two months' notice, because of fears about Ebola.

The Guardian - Sport

In the end you already know how the story ends be kind, not cruel, and please – sit tight on the spoilers as a gesture of respect to fellow blogans and bloganistas.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Emma Fretwell, 19, studying at the University of York, says: It's a nice gesture, but it feels a bit like a fart in the wind.

The Guardian

He celebrated by pretending to play the trumpet – a gesture that he would later explain was intended for a music-loving friend in the crowd.

The Guardian - Sport

In a final gesture of love for Gaby (and the Paris she represents), he calls out to her, pushing against the steel gates that he cannot pass.

The Guardian

Though I can't imagine anyone other than Margaret making that kind of gesture.

The Guardian

"This was not a nice gesture for our fans," responded the latter club's captain, Kamil Glik, during his pre-game press conference.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gesture" to convey both physical movements that communicate meaning and symbolic actions that express an attitude or intention. For example, bowing your head might be a "gesture" of respect.

Common error

Avoid using "gesture" solely for broad actions. It should imply a specific communicative intent, not just any random movement.

Linguistic Context

The word "gesture" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a movement or action used to express an idea or feeling. According to Ludwig, it also functions as a verb, meaning to make a "gesture".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Sport

7%

Opinion

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "gesture" is a versatile word with applications as both a noun and a verb. Primarily, it describes a nonverbal means of communication through physical actions or symbolic acts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is very common in written English.

Analysis of usage patterns reveals that "gesture" appears most frequently in News & Media, reflecting its relevance in reporting on events and human interactions. While generally neutral in tone, the formality can shift based on the context. To ensure clarity, remember that a "gesture" implies communicative intent, differentiating it from mere random movements. Use "gesture" to add depth and nuance to your writing, effectively conveying unspoken meanings and intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

symbolic act

Implies a "gesture" carries a deeper meaning or represents something beyond its literal form.

nonverbal cue

Highlights the role of a "gesture" as a signal without spoken words.

meaningful sign

Focuses on the communicative intent and significance of a "gesture".

expressive movement

Emphasizes the emotional or communicative aspect of a physical movement.

body language

Refers specifically to nonverbal communication through physical movements and postures.

act of goodwill

Highlights a "gesture" done with positive intentions and kindness.

physical motion

Emphasizes the movement aspect of a "gesture", focusing on the physical action.

overture

Suggests a "gesture" made as an opening move or sign of goodwill.

demonstration

Focuses on the act of showing or displaying something, often with intent.

indication

Refers to a sign or piece of information that points towards something.

FAQs

How can I use "gesture" in a sentence?

You can use "gesture" to describe a movement that expresses an idea or feeling, such as "He made a "gesture of apology"". It can also refer to a symbolic act, like "The peace offering was seen as a "gesture of goodwill"".

What's the difference between a "gesture" and a "movement"?

While a "movement" is any change in position, a "gesture" is a specific type of movement intended to communicate something. All "gestures" are movements, but not all movements are "gestures". A "gesture" has communicative intent.

What can I say instead of "gesture"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "indication", "action", "sign", or "symbol". The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Can "gesture" be used as a verb?

Yes, "gesture" can be used as a verb meaning "to make a "gesture"", as in "He "gestured towards the door"". It's often used to describe indicating something without speaking.