Inklingo

How to Say "gesture" in Spanish

English → Spanish

gesto

HES-toh/ˈxes.to/

nounA2general
Use 'gesto' when referring to a physical movement of the body or hands, often to express emotion or communicate non-verbally.
A simple cartoon illustration of a single hand giving a thumbs up sign, representing a physical gesture.

Examples

Hizo un gesto de dolor al tocarse la rodilla.

He made a gesture of pain when he touched his knee.

Con un gesto, el camarero nos indicó que la mesa estaba lista.

With a gesture, the waiter indicated to us that the table was ready.

Su gesto de sorpresa era tan cómico que todos reímos.

His expression of surprise was so comical that we all laughed.

Masculine Noun Rule

Remember that 'gesto' is always a masculine noun, so you use 'el' or 'un' before it: 'el gesto' (the gesture).

Pronouncing the 'G'

Mistake: “Pronouncing the 'g' like the English 'g' in 'go' ('ges-toh').”

Correction: The correct sound is the strong Spanish 'j' sound, like the English 'h' in 'hello' ('HES-toh').

detalle

deh-TAH-yeh/deˈtaʎe/

nounB1general
Choose 'detalle' when 'gesture' refers to a kind or thoughtful act, often a small gift or favor.
One hand offering a single red tulip to another hand as a small, thoughtful gesture of kindness.

Examples

Tuvo un bonito detalle al traerme flores.

He made a lovely gesture by bringing me flowers.

Es un detalle, no tenías que molestarte.

It's just a small treat, you didn't have to bother.

Valoramos mucho esos pequeños detalles de hospitalidad.

We really value those little acts of hospitality.

Using 'Tener' with Detalle

Use the verb 'tener' (to have) with 'detalle' to express that someone performed a thoughtful act: 'Tuvo un detalle conmigo' (He had a thoughtful act with me = He did something nice for me).

señal

nounB1general
Use 'señal' when 'gesture' means a specific motion or signal intended to convey information or indicate something.

Examples

El director de orquesta dio la señal para empezar.

The conductor gave the signal to begin.

Physical Movement vs. Kind Act

The most common confusion is between 'gesto' (physical movement) and 'detalle' (kind act). Remember that 'gesto' is about body language, while 'detalle' is about a thoughtful action or gift.

Related Translations

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