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Italian Phrase

Come ci si saluta con le mani?

/ˈko.me tʃi si saˈlu.ta kon le ˈma.ni/
Meaning"How do you greet each other with your hands?"
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Meaning

This phrase is used to ask about the physical gestures used during a greeting. It employs the impersonal 'si' construction combined with the reflexive verb 'salutarsi' (to greet each other), making it a general question about social norms. It is particularly relevant in Italy, where non-verbal communication is a vital part of daily interaction.

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When to use

Use this phrase when you are in a new social environment in Italy and want to know the correct etiquette for hand gestures. It is ideal for asking a language partner or a local friend about the difference between formal and informal physical greetings.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Comeci si salutaconle mani

1

Ci si (Impersonal Reflexive)

When the impersonal 'si' is used with a reflexive verb, the first 'si' changes to 'ci' to prevent the double 'si si' sound.

2

Le mani

The word 'mano' is irregular: it is feminine despite ending in 'o'. Its plural form is 'le mani'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Domani incontro il mio nuovo capo. Come ci si saluta con le mani?

Tomorrow I meet my new boss. How do you greet each other with your hands?

In quel caso, una stretta di mano formale è la scelta migliore.

In that case, a formal handshake is the best choice.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Come si saluta con le mani?

    When using an impersonal 'si' with a reflexive verb like 'salutarsi', you must use 'ci si' to avoid the repetitive 'si si'.

  • Come tu saluti con le mani?

    While grammatically possible, using the impersonal 'ci si' is much more natural when asking about general cultural customs rather than a specific person's habit.

↔Alternatives

  • Quali sono i gesti per salutare?

    What are the gestures for greeting?

  • Ci si stringe la mano?

    Do people shake hands?

  • Si fa un cenno con la mano?

    Does one give a wave/sign with the hand?

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Cultural Tip

In Italy, hand gestures are an art form. While a firm handshake is the standard for professional introductions, friends and family often combine a wave with a 'ciao' or even a light touch on the shoulder. Understanding these subtle hand movements will make your Italian sound and look much more authentic.