身振り

みぶり

gesture

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"身振り" (みぶり) refers to physical gestures or movements of the body used to express feelings, emphasize speech, or communicate non-verbally. It is often paired with "手振り" (hand movements) to describe expressive body language.

Common Contexts

This word is frequently used when discussing non-verbal communication, especially in situations where spoken language is limited or to add emphasis during conversation. For example, when speaking with foreigners or in presentations, using 身振り can help convey meaning more clearly.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 身振りを使う: to use gestures
  • 身振り手振り: gestures and hand movements together
  • 身振りで伝える: to convey something through gestures

Register and Nuance

身振り is a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It emphasizes the physical aspect of communication rather than verbal.

Common Learner Tips

Learners sometimes confuse 身振り with 表情 (facial expressions). Remember, 身振り specifically refers to body movements or gestures, not facial expressions. Also, 身振り is often used in combination with 手振り to describe full body language.

Example Sentences

かれはみぶりではなしのないようをきょうちょうした。

He emphasized the content of his story with gestures.

みぶりてぶりをまじえてせつめいすると、りかいしやすくなる。

When you explain using gestures and hand movements, it becomes easier to understand.

がいこくじんとはなすときは、みぶりをつかってコミュニケーションをとることがおおい。

When talking with foreigners, people often use gestures to communicate.