Is the American OK sign rude in Latin America?

Question

I've read that the American 'OK' sign (thumb touching forefinger to make a circle while other fingers are free) is very rude in Brazil, where it signifies that you are calling someone an ***hole. Is this true? And are there other parts of Latin America (or indeed the world) where this gesture has this meaning?

Answer 1

I believe it is rude in Brazil, Argentina, Guatemala, Mexico, and Paraguay; and it may not even mean anything in other Latin American countries like in my country, Peru. I don't even think we have an ok sign.

Still, you may want to check a book or website about Latin American etiquette for business travelers. They usually include information about this kind of stuff.

Answer 2

maybe in brazil, but in my country its common. We even used it to siginify the same thing "OK".

Answer 3

In most cultures it's rude.

There is a great book out there that gives a primer to business travelers how to act abroad.

It's call Kiss, Bow or Shake Hands.

http://www.amazon.com/Kiss-Bow-Shake-Han...

Answer 4

Can be rude in Brazil to some older ppl but most of youth  knows it meant OK but anyway sign OK the way u described is considered tacky among them!

Actually to this gesture be considered rude in Brazil u need to direct the palm of ur hand to u and no to the other person!