LINGUOCULTURAL FEATURES OF HAND GESTURES IN UZBEK AND ENGLISH LANGUAGES

Abstract

Hand gestures are an essential component of nonverbal communication that convey meanings, emotions, attitudes, and cultural values beyond verbal language. Different cultures employ specific gestures that reflect their social norms, traditions, and communicative behavior. This study investigates the linguocultural features of hand gestures in Uzbek and English-speaking societies through a comparative analysis. The research aims to identify similarities and differences in the use, interpretation, and cultural significance of hand gestures in both linguistic communities. The findings reveal that while some gestures possess universal meanings, many are culturally marked and serve as indicators of national identity and communicative etiquette.