Common Examples of Body Language
Here are some of the most common signs of body language that you are likely to come across or even engage in, along with the usual interpretation of such actions. While they may not be set in stone, they are general interpretations that hold true for the majority of people.
| NONVERBAL BODY LANGUAGE | INTERPRETATION |
| Walking tall and briskly means ... | the person is confident. |
| Standing with both hands on the hips is seen as ... | a sign of aggression. |
| Sitting with the legs crossed and kicking one leg back and forth suggests ... | the person is bored. |
| Sitting down with the legs apart or comfortable means ... | the person is relaxed and open. |
| Arms crossed over chest suggests ... | the person is on the defense or closed off. |
| Walking slumped over with hands in the pockets means ... | the person is sad. |
| Having a hand on the cheek means ... | the person is thinking or evaluating something. |
| Touching or rubbing the nose is ... | a sign of lying or doubt. |
| Rubbing the eye is ... | a sign of disbelief. |
| Clasping the hands behind the back shows that ... | the person is angry or frustrated. |
| Locking the ankles together while sitting down means ... | the person is nervous. |
| Resting head in hands and looking down indicates ... | the person is bored. |
| Hand-rubbing can be ... | a sign of eagerness. |
| Sitting with legs crossed and the hands clasped behind the person's head is seen as ... | a sign of confidence or feeling superior. |
| Open hands or palms indicate ... | the person is open. |
| Tapping the fingers on the table ... | the person is impatient. |
| Playing with the hair suggests ... | the person feels insecure. |
| Tilting the head indicates ... | the listerner is interested. |
| Using the hand to stroke the chin means ... | the person is trying to make a decision. |
| Looking down and turning the face away shows ... | the listener is in disbelief. |
| Biting the nails or skin around nails indicates ... | the person is nervous. |
| Pulling the ear means ... | the person is showing indecision. |
Body Language as the Listener
As a listener, you can use body language cues in two ways. First, it is helpful in learning more about what the speaker is trying to communicate. As a listener, you can pick up on how the speaker feels about the subject matter. Also, as a listener, you can use body language to make sure you are displaying the type of nonverbal communication that you intend.
Keep in mind that there always are going to be exceptions to these body language gestures. Some people may be in wheelchairs, using crutches, or have other such issues that may keep them from doing certain things and prompt them to do others. However, this information applies to most people, especially those without such issues.
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