The thumbs-up gesture is a sign of approval in most countries. However, in several countries in West Africa and the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the gesture has the connotation of "up yours!" It's used the same way the middle finger is in the US.

What country is it rude to give a thumbs up?

1. Thumbs Up. In Iran, Greece, Russia, Sardinia, and parts of West Africa the thumbs up is as rude as the middle finger is in the UK. So no posing in front of the Parthenon making the thumbs up gesture like a nerdy tourist.

Why is thumbs up rude in Australia?

Though many western countries recognize a "thumbs up" gesture as an affirmative sign or sign of approval, in Australia it is considered a rude gesture having a meaning similar to that of a raised middle finger. ... In Australia, it means OK, but if you move it up and down, it is considered as a grave insult.