Giving People a Thumbs Up
“Hey dude, thumbs up!” It is indeed interesting to note that a thumbs-up gesture is not universally recognized as a universal sign. Many Americans are often unaware that this hand gesture is not commonly used or understood in various other regions around the world. Next time you leave the States, you might want to think twice about using that hand gesture because it could mean something else.
In certain countries around the world, a thumbs-up gesture can carry a negative connotation similar to that of showing someone the middle finger which could potentially lead to undesirable consequences, and one might not walk away with their thumb unscathed. Just a warning for the next time you travel.